This letter transmits one amended rule reflecting adoption updates as a result of the Five Year Review. This rule will be effective September 1, 2015. The following is a brief explanation of the changes:

OAC rule 5101:2-48-08, entitled "Adoption inquiry" provides guidance to agencies on the response required when community members call to express interest in adopting. Paragraph (B) was removed for clarity, and the same requirement was expressed through each subsequent paragraph in the rule. The new paragraph (B) (1) was revised to allow agencies to give inquirers the link for the JFS 01675 "Ohio Adoption Guide: Handbook for Prospective Adoptive Families" (rev. 5/2014) rather than sending the hard copy, allowing the agency to save resources. Paragraph (B)(2), (B)(5), (B)(6), and (B)(7) were removed because they are each described in detail in the JFS 01675, which is required to be given to the inquirer. Paragraph (D) was revised for clarity. Paragraph (F) was added to ensure agencies that have access to the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) know that requirements of this rule must be captured in the SACWIS system. All changes are a result of the Partners For Ohio's Families rule review process that included public and private agencies, as well as foster and adoptive parents.

INSTRUCTIONS: The following chart identifies the material that should be removed from the Family, Children and Adult Services Manual (FCASM) and the material that should be added.