Federal Government Moves to Better Its Criminal Record System

The federal government is moving to improve its criminal records system.
The Department of Justice asked for bidders to improve the accuracy, utility and interstate accessibility of criminal history records, a request for proposals said.
The upgrade was intended to enhance the crime fighting and criminal justice capabilities of state and tribal governments, the document said.
The program includes protective orders involving domestic violence and stalking, plus automated identification systems in background checks.
“The National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) continues the Justice Department’s efforts, initiated by the FBI in 1924, to build an accurate and useful national system of criminal records,” said William J. Sabol, acting director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
The deadline to apply for funding was May 12, 2014. Eligible applicants were limited to the agency that was designated by the governor in each state.