Pittsburgh-Area Roofers Sue Over School Background Checks

PITTSBURGH (AP) - A Pittsburgh-area union is suing three school districts on behalf of 21 roofers who failed criminal background checks meant to keep sexual offenders away from children.

United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local No. 37 is suing claiming the workers' rights were violated when they were banned from school grounds by officials in the Fox Chapel Area, North Allegheny and Montour school districts.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review says the union believes the workers are exempt from the background checks under a state law because they don't have direct contact with children.

Officials in North Allegheny declined comment.

But officials with Fox Chapel and Montour say background checks are required for anyone to be on school property.

The union says the background checks unfairly stigmatize workers and cost them wages.

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