NCJ Number
86097
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 49 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1982) Pages: 50-53
Date Published
1982
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's (OPM's) investigations program, authority for collecting criminal history data, and the uses made of and protections afforded such information.
Abstract
The OPM, successor to the U.S. Civil Service Commission, is the central personnel agency for the United States Government. The OPM is charged with oversight responsibilities for the Government's personnel security program. Most law enforcement officials are aware that the OPM's requests for criminal justice information are made in connection with background investigations conducted on persons for Federal employment and clearance for access to classified or specially restricted data and material. The Congress and the President have authorized OPM to conduct such investigations. In carrying out its investigative responsibilities, the OPM has often provided informational assistance to State and local law enforcement officials at no cost to them. However, OPM has imposed stringent controls to safeguard information developed through investigation and to protect individual rights. OPM maintains a record of all disclosures of information in its reports as required by the Privacy Act of 1974. Cooperation from law enforcement authorities is vital to the OPM in carrying out its responsibilities.