July 18, 2005

Lansing - Fingerprint cards and ink pads have given way to electronic fingerprinting when it comes to doing state-mandated applicant background checks in Michigan. Under a new agreement, an applicant's fingerprints and necessary personal information will be captured digitally in less than five minutes.

The Michigan State Police (MSP) has entered into an agreement with Identix Identification Services to provide digital fingerprinting at locations across the state within a 50 mile radius of each applicant and within 10 business days of making an appointment. Identix will streamline the fingerprinting process by capturing all the required information digitally so it can be submitted electronically to the MSP for processing.

"We are enthusiastic about the ability to make digital fingerprinting accessible to everyone in the state," said Lt. Colonel Tom Miller, MSP deputy director and commander of the Administrative Services Bureau.  "The agreement with Identix will result in more accurate records and quicker turnaround time for applicants, in addition to reducing the burden on law enforcement to perform these types of services."

Applicant background checks are required in Michigan for certain types of employment and licensing. Some examples include employment in schools or health care, private security and investigator licenses and driver education instructor certification. Additionally, individuals who deal directly with children and vulnerable adults can be fingerprinted under the National Child Protection Act.