Governor Signs Nanny Registry Law

New York Gov. George Pataki signed “Kieran’s Law,” allowing parents to check a potential nanny’s criminal record--if the person consents. The law is named for Kieran Dunne, a baby who was killed in 1993 by a caregiver who had hidden her criminal past. Pataki, in White Plains, N.Y., for the signing, said potential nannies would not be required to submit to fingerprinting if asked by parents, but refusing to do so would “send a very clear message.” Under the law, which goes into effect Nov. 3, the fingerprints will be sent to the state’s Division of Criminal Justice Services and to the FBI. Parents will be notified of any criminal convictions or serious arrests.