Updated 4/7/15
AGENDA ITEM #9.c.
Background Study NETStudy 2.0 update
This is an update about implementation of NETStudy 2.0, the statewide fingerprint and photo service locations, and the Department of Human Services (DHS’) phone number and email for NETStudy 2.0.
Expanded testing of the fingerprint and photo service
NETStudy 2.0 is the new background study portal that providers and entities will use to initiate fingerprint-based background studies, track results, and maintain staff rosters. A pilot group of providers who have been testing NETStudy 2.0 for the last several months will begin using the system to initiate fingerprint-based studies beginning next Monday, April 6. These studies will also include the background study subjects’ photos in NETStudy 2.0 for identity verification. Testing of fingerprint-based criminal record checks began in January and the expansion to the pilot providers is a significant step in moving forward with broader implementation with other providers and entities in the near future. The implementation schedule for other providers and entities will be based on the results of the expanded testing with the pilot providers. Information about the rollout will be posted on the DHS web site in the coming weeks. All providers and entities will be contacted prior to transitioning to NETStudy 2.0.
The NETStudy 2.0 system will provide faster and more accurate background study determinations, once the fingerprints and photo are entered into the system. For background study subjects that have a fingerprint-based background study in NETStudy 2.0 and who provide their SSN, their background study determination will be available in real-time when an entity initiates a study request. The NETStudy 2.0 system that the pilot providers will be using on April 6th includes:
Ø New interfaces to complete state criminal record checks through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension using fingerprints.
Ø Programming to automatically transmit information to the FBI to complete a fingerprint-based national criminal record search when certain criteria are met.
Ø Processes to receive and identify new state criminal information from the Minnesota Court Information System.
Ø Automated checks against the state and federal exclusion lists, and DHS review of maltreatment data, etc.
Ø Providing electronic notices of background study determinations to providers that replaces the current process of USPS mailings.
Ø The ability for providers to confirm the identity of background study subjects via photographs that are taken at the time of fingerprinting.
Ø The option for background study subjects to have their background study file erased after a certain about of time.
Statewide fingerprint and photo service locations
3M Cogent the vendor that is providing the statewide fingerprinting and photo service locations has updated its website for Minnesota. On the web page under Useful Information there is a link to the Fingerprint and Photo Locations and Hours. The link provides a map of the state from which a region may be selected that then displays a list of fingerprint and photo service locations in that area that are now available. When a specific location is selected, information including the hours of operation, directions, and a phone number for the site are provided. Background study subjects should not need to drive more than 40 miles from their home for the service. DHS is evaluating the locations of fingerprint and photo locations. 3M Cogent will update the map as new locations are available.
DHS technical assistance phone number and email
To support the transition to NETStudy 2.0 and use of fingerprints and photos, a separate phone line and email address was established to provide technical assistance and address questions concerning NETStudy 2.0, the fingerprint and photo process, and any other implementation or transition issues. The phone number is 651-431-6625 and the email is . Both are available for use now. Additional information about NETStudy 2.0 and the background study improvements are on the DHS web site. The web site is expected to be updated early next week.