ECCU oversees compliance for all Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Community and Developmental Center employees who work directly with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities as well as many program employees receiving funding through the Division of Family Development (DFD) and the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS).

All employees in direct care roles are required to undergo a thorough background check before they can be hired, and at regular intervals thereafter. This includes:

• State and Federal criminal history checks via fingerprinting  
• Sex Offender Registry check

ECCU reviews criminal history records and determines whether an applicant is eligible for employment. Some convictions are considered permanent disqualifiers, such as violent crimes against children. In certain cases, individuals with past convictions may have the opportunity to demonstrate rehabilitation.

To ensure a safe environment for individuals receiving services:

• Pre-employment drug testing is mandatory for all community employees providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Random drug testing is conducted throughout employment
• Employers may also conduct drug testing if there is reasonable suspicion that an employee is under the influence

Caregiving often involves giving medications, assisting with daily needs, and making quick decisions in emergencies. Using drugs can put individuals, coworkers, and the caregiver themselves at risk. Drug testing helps keep people safe, instill trust, follow state law, reduce accidents and mistakes, and support employees who may need help.

All direct care employees must undergo a Child Abuse Record Information check through the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

If a record is found, the applicant is not eligible for employment.

To protect the safety of individuals, providers must check all employees against the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities. This registry identifies individuals who have been found responsible for abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Anyone listed on the registry is not permitted to work or volunteer in programs serving individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability.

Our commitment to rigorous screening helps ensure that only qualified, responsible, and trustworthy individuals care for New Jersey’s most vulnerable citizens. By maintaining these high standards, ECCU protects the rights, dignity, and safety of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.