This letter transmits the following Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) rule changes relating to the implementation of the federal Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA): 5101:2-42-181, "Foster Care Requirements Pursuant to the Multiethnic Placement Act;" and 5101:2-48-13, "Adoption Requirements Pursuant to the Multiethnic Placement Act." This issuance transmits the rules which clarify the federal requirements that both foster care and adoption agencies must follow when considering the use of race, color or national origin in the placement of a child. These rules will become effective May 1, 2002.

As MEPA effects both foster care and adoption, the department has created two forms and amended the ODJFS 01673, ODJFS Assessment for Child Placement. The Transracial/Transcultural Issues section has been deleted from the Assessment Summary Form Outline of the JFS 01673, "Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Assessment for Child Placement." The new JFS 01688, "Individualized Assessment Form," is to be completed by the child"s custodial agency when race, color or national origin is used as a possible factor in making decisions regarding a child"s placement for foster care or adoption. The department has also created the JFS 01689, "Documentation of the Placement Decision-Making Process," as a suggested means of documenting child specific needs and family characteristics to assist in the selection of a placement in the best interests of the child. The use of the JFS 01689 is optional at this time.

INSTRUCTIONS:

The chart on the following page depicts what materials are to be removed from the Family, Children and Adult Services Manual (FCASM) and what materials are to be inserted in the FCASM.