[mbyron]

We do not have background checks (yet). Here's the Ohio policy (from the OHSAA Officials Handbook):

7.5 Criminal Convictions
1. New License Application or Renewal. An Officiating Permit will not be issued or renewed for
anyone:
a. convicted, or adjudicated with a finding of fault, guilt or violation, in regard to an offense involving
a minor any sexual offense unless/until such offense has been reversed by proper authority with
jurisdiction over the matter; or,
b. convicted, or adjudicated with a finding of fault, guilt or violation, in regard to an offense involving
any illegal/illicit drug or controlled substance as prescribed by federal or state law or regulation,
prior to five (5) years following the completion of any sentence/parole/probation period imposed for
the offense; or,
c. currently serving a sentence or a parole/probation period for any offense or adjudication of guilt
imposed by any court, judge or administrative body, other than simple traffic violations.
2. Currently Licensed Officials
a. When a current OHSAA licensed official is indicted or charged with any criminal offense or charged
with a violation of any statute pertaining to minors, drugs or a controlled substance, such license
will automatically be suspended, pending resolution of the indictment or charge. Conviction or
adjudication of fault, guilt or a violation under any such indictment or charge shall result in
immediate and automatic forfeiture of the officiating permit.
b. Current OHSAA licensed sports officials must inform the OHSAA of any such indictment or charge
immediately upon receipt of or upon having knowledge of such indictment or charge. Failure to
notify the OHSAA shall itself be a basis for immediate and automatic forfeiture of the officiating
license.
3. Reinstatement/Reapplication of License. An official whose license has been forfeited, suspended or
revoked or an applicant who is denied a license, under the provisions of this policy, may petition for
reinstatement/reapplication based on the following:
a. If suspension, revocation or forfeiture of a license is based upon conviction, adjudication or finding
as a result of a felony: the official/applicant may petition for a license one year after the completion
of the parole/probation period; other than conviction of illegal illicit drugs, controlled substance
where a 5 year probation period is used, or immediately upon dismissal or reversal of the charge or
conviction (provided the offense was NOT involving a minor or a sexual offense).
b. If suspension, revocation, forfeiture or denial results from a misdemeanor or other non-felony
charge: the official/applicant may petition for a license immediately upon the completion of the
parole/probation period (provided the offense was NOT involving a minor or a sexual offense).
c. If suspension, revocation, forfeiture or denial of a license is based upon any conviction, adjudication
or finding involving a minor or sexual offense, reinstatement/reapplication will not be permitted,
unless/until such offense has been reversed by proper authority having jurisdiction over the matter.