U.S. criminal record checks

 Hi all,

I have recently come back for a third contract.  Immigration doesn't want to accept my local criminal background check (notarized with apostille) and want me to provide a state-wide check.  I used the same criminal record check a year ago with no problem (and the year before that).  I remember of all changes that happened with getting visas but that was back in 2007/2008.  Has there been some recent change that I am unaware of?

Have any of you Americans out there gotten a visa issued in the last year with a local background check?

Thanks for taking the time to read.  Cheers!