This letter transmits rule 5101:2-42-18 of the Ohio Administrative Code (OAC). The rule, originally entitled Approval of Substitute Care Placement Settings is being rescinded and replaced with PCSA and PCPA Approval of Placements with Relative or Nonrelative Substitute Caregivers.

This rule allows PCSAs and PCPAs to make placements of children with relatives and nonrelatives who do not choose to become licensed as foster homes. This rule sets forth the requirements for minimum assessments which must be conducted to assure that the placement is safe and appropriate, and that the relative or nonrelative has the ability and willingness to properly care for the child. OAC 5101:2-42-18 requires PCSAs and PCPAs to complete the JFS 01447 "Approval of Relative or Nonrelative Caregiver's Ability to Care for Child(ren) and Recommendation for Placement," which serves as the official approval of the relative or nonrelative home.

This rule will be effective on November 3, 2003.

For questions about this letter, please contact the Office for Children and Families by phone at: 1-866-886-3537, Option 4; or by email at: HELP-DESK-OCF@odjfs.state.oh.us.

INSTRUCTIONS:

The following chart 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.