Background Clearances

 If you are not aware the state of PA has recently made some changes to the laws to better protect our children.  23 pieces of legislation were enacted, changing how Pennsylvania responds to child abuse. These changes significantly impact the reporting, investigation, assessment, prosecution and judicial handling of child abuse and neglect cases. 

While BYS had previously required background checks for coaches, the requirements and the way we handle background checks have changed slightly.  BYS is now requiring all coaches and parent volunteers who supervise or have direct repeated contact with children complete the following 3 forms and return them to us. Coaches, assistant coaches and any one who regularly helps in the dugouts or at practices will need them BEFORE the start of practices. Snack bar volunteers will not need clearances.

Some links below may not be cell phone compatible.  Please us a desktop or laptop to access the links:

• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearances (CY113):
  • https://www.compass.state.pa.us/CWIS
• Pennsylvania Criminal Record Checks (SP4-164):
  • https://epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp
• Pennsylvania Residency Form
• Click here for the PA Residency Acknowledgment Form

Forms are good for a period of 5 years. BYS is required to keep copies of all forms. If you have previously completed these background checks for us you will unfortunately need to complete them again.

If you have not lived in the state of PA consecutively for the past 10 years you will need to complete an additional form ( FBI Criminal Background Check ) at your own cost and provide us with the results.  $25.75

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal Background Check (if not a PA resident for the past 10 years):
• www.pa.cogentid.com/index_dpw.htm

One last thing, all volunteers are now considered mandated reporters.  What this means is if you suspect, witness or are notified of any sort of child abuse while involved with BYS activites you are required by law to report it.  To report suspected child abuse go to www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis or call 1-800-932-0313. There is also a form ( CY-47) available on our website.

• Mandatory Reporting Form
• Click here for a printable copy

Here is also an additional link to more information regarding the new laws and clearances.

• Required Clearances:
• http://www.keepkidssafe.pa.gov/cs/groups/webcontent/documents/document/C_135249.pdf

If you have any questions visit http://keepkidssafe.pa.gov/ or email us at bysboard@gmail.com

 Coaches Concussion Training

http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/training/index.html

Concussion training must be complete for all head and assistant coaches that want to coach for BYS starting for the spring 2017 season and beyond.  You must print out your certificate and turn in a copy to the BYS board before you are aloud to start to coach.  This is for all levels of play.  Thank you for you help in this matter.