This letter transmits amendment of Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 5101:2-48-09. This rule will be effective February 1, 2022. The following is a brief explanation of the changes:

OAC 5101:2-48-09 entitled Application Process and Preservice Training provides guidance to agencies regarding the process and training required for persons seeking adoption approval. Paragraph (D) was amended to change terminology from adoptive parent to applicant. Paragraph (F)(3) was amended to provide reference to the offense list in appendix A of rule 5101:2-7-02, and to update language to enhance clarity. Paragraphs (O)(11) and (O)(12) were amended to include a requirement of training for a specified time frame for cultural issues and for addressing section 2152.72 of the Revised Code. Paragraph (P) was amended to remove the requirement to not allow the training on cultural issues to be waived, which will allow for cultural training to be a regular topic that could be subject to waiver. In paragraph (Q) language was updated to change terminology from handicap to disability, and sexual identity to gender identity.

INSTRUCTIONS:

The following chart indicates the material that should be removed from the Family, Children and Adult Services Manual (FCASM) and the materials that are to be inserted in the FCASM.