Who can authorize inquiries under Purpose Code 'E' for DSS?

For Purpose Code 'E' inquiries related to Department of Social Services (DSS), local terminal agencies have the authorization to conduct these inquiries. This is because local terminal agencies typically have the necessary jurisdiction and established protocols to access data pertinent to their operations, including child welfare investigations or assistance applications, which Purpose Code 'E' may cover.

Other entities, such as law enforcement agencies at large, may have access to different sets of data under MCIC guidelines but do not have the specific authority to use Purpose Code 'E' inquiries like local terminal agencies do. SLED might have oversight in broader law enforcement matters but does not monopolize access to this specific area of inquiry. Judicial courts have limited access based on the judicial processes they are involved in and would not directly handle inquiries under Purpose Code 'E' in a manner typical for local terminal agencies. This makes local terminal agencies the most appropriate option for authorizing these inquiries regarding DSS matters.