Background checks and investigations are becoming more complex. New privacy and record-sealing laws mean that a database search alone tells less of the story than it once did. Two recent changes show why.

California: deletion requests to data brokers

Beginning August 1, 2026, California’s Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform (DROP) requires registered data brokers to process consumer deletion requests, subject to certain exceptions. As a result, some commercial databases may become less complete. The underlying information may still exist in public records. It may simply no longer appear in that database. Learn more from the California Privacy Protection Agency.

Virginia: sealed records

Under Virginia’s Clean Slate Law, businesses that provide screening services must stop disseminating records they know have been sealed and must follow procedures for handling accuracy disputes. See Virginia Code § 19.2-392.16. Horizon is reviewing its procedures with its information providers to support compliance.

What this means for you

A database result may be incomplete, and an empty result does not always mean nothing exists. Horizon looks beyond the database: we evaluate the sources available, identify their limits, and conduct additional research through court, property, corporate, and licensing records when an assignment requires it.

Learn more about our Employment Background Screening and Investigative and Research Services.

Have a question about how these changes affect your searches?

Contact Horizon