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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 5101:2-33 | Administrative Requirements

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 5101:2-33-02 | PCSA requirement to participate in child protection oversight and evaluation.
 

(A) The public children services agency (PCSA) shall participate with the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) staff in the child protection oversight and evaluation (CPOE) quality improvement review which may be conducted in two twenty-four month phases.

(B) The PCSA is to develop and sumbit for approval by ODJFS a plan for practice advancement (PPA) outlining the PCSAs strategies to improve casework practices and/or systemic issues. The PPA is required to be submitted to ODFJS within forty-five days of the first twenty-four month CPOE entrance conference.

(C) If the PCSA requests an extenstion to submit the PPA, all of the following is to occur:

(1) The written extension request is to be submitted to ODJFS prior to the expiration of the established timeframe outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(2) The decision to grant the extension will be provided to the PCSA in writing within fifteen days of the receipt of the request.

(3) The length of the extension will be based on the rationale provided for the basis of the extension.

(D) Upon approval of the PPA, the PCSA is to implement the PPA in order to achieve the identified outcomes.

(E) The PCSA is to participate in monitoring the implementation of the PPA and achievement of the identified outcomes.

(F) With prior notice, the PCSA shall make available relevant documents not maintained in the statewide automated child welfare information system and personnel during the CPOE quality improvement review process.

(G) The CPOE review of the PCSA shall include the examination and analysis of the following in relation to the PCSA's delivery of child welfare services to children and families:

(1) Federal outcome indicators involving child safety, child permanency, and child and family well-being.

(2) Compliance with statutorily mandated PCSA responsibilities outlined in Revised Code and division 5101:2 rules of the Administrative Code.

(H) The CPOE review shall include discussion and inquiry as to the systemic factors that contribute to the PCSA's delivery of child welfare services including, but not limited to, the following:

(1) Local demographic data.

(2) Information regarding the PCSA's infrastructure including the table of organization.

(3) Staffing levels.

(4) Caseload sizes.

(5) PCSA budgetary data.

(6) The availability of supportive services in the community.

(7) Exemplary casework practices.

(I) Information sources that can be utilized during the evaluation, reconciliation of case data report measures, and the quality improvement review process include, but are not limited to, the following:

(1) Data reports generated from the ODJFS management information systems containing PCSA data including, but not limited to, the statewide automated child welfare information system, results oriented management and business intelligence channel.

(2) Findings obtained from client, stakeholder, provider, and PCSA staff interviews, as applicable.

(3) Information obtained from the review of the PCSA's case records whether hard copy file, electronic file, or a combination of both.

(4) Data obtained from the PCSA's data management systems, as applicable.

(5) Other information concerning the PCSA's service delivery system including, but not limited to, council on accreditation findings, strategic planning data, and county budgetary data.

(J) If the PCSA submits an addendum or appeal to the CPOE report at the end of either twenty-four month phase, the PCSA is to do so in accordance with paragraphs (K) and (L) of this rule.

(K) If the PCSA submits a written addendum to either clarify its position or address the conclusions regarding the evaluation and assessment of the PCSA's performance in the delivery of child welfare services within a CPOE report, without seeking to change the CPOE report or its findings, the PCSA is to do so within thirty days of the PCSA's receipt of the CPOE report. The CPOE report will be re-issued to include the addendum.

(L) If the PCSA submits a written appeal to dispute one or more of the CPOE report findings and requests a decision by ODJFS to change the CPOE report or its findings, the PCSA is to do so within thirty days of the PCSAs receipt of a CPOE report '. The review of the appeal will be completed by an ODJFS staff member not involved in conducting the CPOE review. The appeal decision by ODJFS shall be final. The CPOE report will be re-issued to include the appeal and ODJFS written appeal decision.

(M) The PPA is to remain in effect until the outcomes are achieved, discontinued, and/or a subsequent PPA is developed.

(N) An examination of the CPOE process will occur prior to each CPOE cycle with consideration of recommendations from CPOE stakeholders.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5101.22, 5101.221, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 10/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 2/1/2003
Rule 5101:2-33-03 | Procedure for complaints of alleged discriminatory acts, policies or practices in the foster care or adoption process that involve race, color or national origin.
 

(A) Each public children services agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA), and private noncustodial agency (PNA) shall provide a written notice of the procedure for any complaints of discrimination in the foster care or adoption process that involve race, color or national origin (RCNO) to all individuals inquiring about or applying to be a foster caregiver or adoptive parent. Such notice shall be provided within seven days of the individual's first contact with the agency.

(B) Any individual may file a complaint alleging a discriminatory act, policy or practice involving RCNO in the foster care or adoption process of a PCSA, PCPA, PNA or the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS).

Any person, including but not limited to, an employee or former employee of a PCSA, PCPA, or PNA or a member of a family which has sought to become a foster caregiver or adoptive parent, may also file a complaint alleging that he or she was intimidated, threatened, coerced, discriminated against or otherwise retaliated against in some way by a PCSA, PCPA, PNA or by ODJFS, due to the individual making a complaint, testifying, assisting, or participating in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing in connection with an allegation that a PCSA, PCPA, PNA or ODJFS engaged in discriminatory acts, policies, or practices as it applies in the foster care or adoption process.

(C) The individual filing a complaint shall use the JFS 02333 "Discrimination Complaint." The complaint shall be filed within two years from the date of the occurrence of the alleged discriminatory act; or two years from the date upon which the complainant learned or should have known of a discriminatory act, policy or practice. The complaint may be filed with:

(1) Any PCSA, PCPA or PNA; or,

(2) The ODJFS- bureau of civil rights (BCR).

(D) When any complaint alleging discrimination involving RCNO in the foster care or adoption process is received by:

(1) A PCSA, PCPA or PNA, the agency shall forward the complaint to ODJFS-BCR within three working days of date of receipt of the complaint.

(2) ODJFS-BCR, the department shall notify the PCSA, PCPA, PNA that is the subject of the complaint within three working days of the receipt of the complaint.

(E) ODJFS-BCR shall conduct an investigation of the complaint. The PCSA, PCPA or PNA that is the subject of the complaint shall not initiate, conduct, or run concurrent investigations surrounding the complaint or take any further action regarding the complainant or the subject of the complaint until the issuance of the final investigation report by ODJFS-BCR, unless approved by ODJFS-BCR.

(F) The PCSA, PCPA or PNA that is the subject of the complaint shall cooperate fully with ODJFS-BCR during the course of the investigation and shall submit any information requested by ODJFS-BCR not later than fourteen days from the date of the request, unless otherwise agreed upon.

(G) ODJFS-BCR shall conduct an investigation that shall include, but is not limited to:

(1) Face-to-face interviews with the complainant, the respondent and all relevant witnesses.

(2) Issuance of a final investigation report to the complainant and the PCSA, PCPA or PNA that is the subject of the complaint. The report shall include the allegations, background information, analysis, determination and recommendations and shall be issued within one hundred twenty days of the receipt of the initial complaint.

If unanticipated circumstances require additional time to complete the investigation or to issue the final report, ODJFS will notify the complainant and the PCSA, PCPA, or PNA that is the subject of the complaint of the need for additional time.

(H) Upon completion of the final investigation report, ODJFS shall determine if any action against a PCSA, PCPA or PNA is warranted. For noncompliance by a PCSA, ODJFS may take any action permitted under section 5101.24 of the Revised Code. For noncompliance by a PCPA or PNA, ODJFS may take action concerning the agency's certificate pursuant to Chapter 5101:2-5 of the Administrative Code.

(I) No person who has filed a complaint alleging a discriminatory act, policy or practice involving RCNO in the foster care or adoption process of a PCSA, PCPA or PNA or who has testified, assisted or participated in any manner in the investigation of a complaint shall be intimidated, threatened, coerced, or retaliated against by any employee or contractor of the PCSA, PCPA, PNA or ODJFS.

(J) Nothing in this rule or in an agency's policy shall prohibit an individual from filing a complaint with the United States department of health and human services (HHS), office for civil rights (OCR) alleging discrimination that involves RCNO in the foster care or adoption process of a PCSA, PCPA, PNA or ODJFS.

(K) The requirements of rules 5101:2-33-20 and 5101:2-48-24 of the Administrative Code do not apply to complaints of discrimination in the foster care or adoption process that involve RCNO.

(L) Each PCSA, PCPA or PNA shall provide a written notice of the procedures for any complaints of discrimination in the foster care or adoption process that involve RCNO within thirty days of the effective date to all foster caregivers certified or in the process of certification and to all individuals who have approved adoptive homestudies or who are participating in the adoptive homestudy process on the effective date of this rule.

Last updated April 12, 2021 at 8:42 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 4/12/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/2010
Rule 5101:2-33-07 | Delegation of responsibilities and contracting for the performance of specified agency duties.
 

(A) A public children services agency (PCSA) may enter into a contract with a county department of job and family services (CDJFS); county boards of mental health and addiction services; county boards of developmental disabilities; regional councils of political subdivisions established under Chapter 167. of the Revised Code; public and private individuals or providers of services; or managed care organizations and prepaid health plans to assist them in performing their assigned duties outlined in section 5153.16 of the Revised Code.

(B) The PCSA shall not enter into contracts with other entities delegating its responsibility to perform its investigation duties outlined in section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

(C) If entering into a contract, the PCSA shall ensure that the agency, organization, provider or individual has the required state licensing credentials in order to perform the specified duties outlined in the contract.

(D) When an agreement, compact or contract for the purposes of placing a child is executed between a PCSA and another person, agency, or any other provider of services, the agreement shall specify criteria to be followed to work together in developing and executing case plan services and participating in case reviews and/or semiannual administrative reviews, and the completion of reunification assessments.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.16
Amplifies: 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 10/2/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 10/1/1997 (Emer.), 12/30/1997, 12/21/2007
Rule 5101:2-33-11 | Multiethnic Placement Act (MEPA) agency administrative requirements.
 

(A) Each public children services agency (PCSA) and private child placing agency (PCPA) shall designate a person to serve as the agency's internal monitor for the purposes of the Multiethnic Placement Act, Oct. 20, 1994, P.L. 103-382, as amended by Section 1808 of the Small Business Job Protection Act of 1996, Aug. 20, 1996, P.L. 104-188 (MEPA), and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI). PCSAs and PCPAs may share MEPA monitors from other PCSAs or PCPAs to fulfill MEPA monitoring functions.

(1) The MEPA monitor shall not be the child's caseworker or the caseworker's supervisor.

(2) The MEPA monitor shall not serve as the agency's civil rights coordinator.

(B) A private noncustodial agency (PNA) is not required to designate a MEPA monitor but shall refer all cases in which race, color, or national origin (RCNO) may be a factor in the placement decision to the child's custodial agency for assessment pursuant to rules 5101:2-42-18.1 and 5101:2-48-13 of the Administrative Code.

(C) The MEPA monitor shall review and monitor foster care and adoptive placement decisions when the agency has a completed JFS 01688 "Individualized Child Assessment." The JFS 01688 is in effect for twelve months from the date of the final decision as documented on the JFS 01688 pursuant to rules 5101:2-42-18.1 and 5101:2-48-13 of the Administrative Code.

(D) Annually each PCSA, PCPA, and PNA is to review and update their foster care and adoption recruitment plan. The review and update is to be completed in the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) by June thirtieth each year.

(E) Each PCSA, PCPA, and PNA operating a foster care or adoption program shall adopt written standards of conduct that will govern the performance of its employees or contractors, as that performance relates to compliance with, MEPA and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) as they apply to the foster care and adoption process. The written standards of conduct shall:

(1) Prohibit denying any person the opportunity to become a foster caregiver or an adoptive parent on the basis of race, color or national origin of that person, or of the child involved; or delaying or denying any placement of a child in foster care or for adoption on the basis of the race, color or national origin of the foster caregiver(s), of the adoptive parent(s) or of the child involved.

(2) Include enforcement requirements to be used whenever an agency employee or contractor engages in discriminatory acts, policies, or practices involving race, color, or national origin in the foster care or adoption process as determined by ODJFS upon completion of the investigation conducted pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-03 of the Administrative Code.

(a) The enforcement requirements shall include standards governing penalties, sanctions, and other disciplinary actions, which may include suspension and/or removal, to be applied in accordance with applicable employment law and union contracts.

(b) The standards shall provide for the submission of a corrective action plan whenever an investigation conducted by ODJFS, pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-03 of the Administrative Code, results in a finding that an agency employee or contractor engaged in discriminatory acts, policies, or practices.

(c) The standards require that the corrective action plan will address how the agency will prevent future violation by that employee or contractor and shall require that the corrective action plan be submitted to ODJFS within thirty days of notification of the findings of the investigation.

(d) The agency shall provide a copy of the written standards of conduct to each employee or contractor who is engaged in the placement of children into foster care or for adoption, or engaged in the recruitment, assessment, approval, or selection of a foster caregiver(s) or adoptive family. New employees or contractors shall receive a copy of the written standards of conduct within thirty days of their hire date or the effective date of their contract.

(F) No PCSA, PCPA or PNA shall require an employee to justify a proposed placement for the reason that the race, color or national origin of the child is different from the family whom the worker is proposing as the child's foster caregiver or adoptive parent.

Last updated April 12, 2021 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 4/12/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/1996, 9/18/1996, 12/31/1998 (Emer.), 4/5/1999, 9/1/2003, 2/1/2005, 12/11/2006
Rule 5101:2-33-13 | Administrative procedures for falsification in adoption.
 

(A) If the agency working with the family suspects that a false statement or false document was knowingly made or submitted during the homestudy process or after the homestudy was approved, the worker shall report the information to the agency administrator or designee within three days of the initial determination of possible falsification. The written statement shall include, but is not limited to:

(1) The original document completed by the applicant, or written documentation of the false statement provided by the applicant or adoptive family.

(2) Documentation verifying the information or document is knowingly false.

(B) If there is a child placed in the home who has not yet finalized an adoption, then the agency shall, within twenty-four hours of the administrator or designee receiving the written statement mentioned in paragraph (A) of this rule, determine if there is probable cause related to the adoptive child's safety and well-being to warrant the removal of the child from the home until the investigation is completed.

(C) If the agency conducting the investigation is not the agency with custody of the child, the agency shall notify the custodial agency within twenty-four hours of administrator or designee receiving the written statement mentioned in paragraph (A) of this rule of the concerns related to the falsification.

(D) Within ten days of the administrator or designee receiving the written statement described in paragraph (A) of this rule, the agency shall send a notification letter to the adoptive applicant or approved adoptive family, via certified mail, indicating that the information submitted to the agency has been determined to be knowingly false. The notice shall include the following:

(1) Date the notice was mailed.

(2) A copy of the documentation alleged to be knowingly falsified, as well as a written explanation of the falsification.

(3) A statement that the agency is required to notify the county prosecutor in cases in which it has been determined the applicant or family made knowingly false statements, pursuant to section 2921.13 of the Revised Code.

(4) A statement indicating the homestudy process will discontinue because the agency has probable cause to believe a false statement or document was knowingly provided.

(5) If the homestudy process has already been completed, then the agency shall include a statement that includes the following:

(a) The agency will not present the family at a matching conference, pursuant to rule 5101:2-48-16 of the Administrative Code if it is determined a false statement or document was knowingly provided.

(b) The agency will not release a homestudy for sharing or transferring, pursuant to rule 5101:2-48-19 of the Administrative Code if it is determined a false statement or document was knowingly provided.

(c) A homestudy will not be filed with the court for finalization purposes pursuant to section 3107.031 of the Revised Code if it is determined a false statement or document was knowingly provided.

(6) A statement that the adoptive applicant or adoptive family has the right to respond to the allegation of falsification.

(7) A statement that the adoptive applicant or adoptive family has ten days from the date they receive the notification letter to respond to the agency with documentation that the allegation is unfounded and that the statements or documents were not knowingly falsified.

(8) If the adoptive homestudy is in the process, a statement that if the applicant fails to respond to the agency within ten days of the receipt of the notification letter then the application to adopt is considered withdrawn and the refusal to respond to the allegation has resulted in the termination of the homestudy process by voluntary withdrawal.

(9) If the adoptive homestudy has been approved, a statement that if the adoptive family fails to respond to the agency within ten days of the receipt of the notification letter then the refusal to respond to the allegation will result in the expiration of the adoption homestudy approval at the end of the current approval span.

(E) If the applicant or adoptive family fails to respond to the agency within ten days of the date of receipt pursuant to paragraph (D) of this rule, the agency shall close the adoption homestudy as if the adoptive applicant or adoptive family has voluntarily withdrawn from the homestudy process.

(F) If the applicant or adoptive family responds within the ten day timeframe with the documentation required in paragraph (D)(7) of this rule, then the agency shall conduct an internal investigation that includes the following:

(1) A review of the information received from the adoptive applicant or family.

(2) A face to face visit with the adoptive applicant(s) or adoptive family.

(3) An interview with any other relevant witnesses, if applicable.

(G) The final investigative report shall be completed and mailed to the adoptive applicant no later than thirty days after the receipt of the adoptive applicant's or adoptive family's response to the allegation.

(1) If unanticipated circumstances require additional time to complete the investigation or issue the report, the agency shall notify the applicant or adoptive family of the need for more time and that an extension of an additional fourteen days is needed.

(2) The extension shall be documented in the adoptive family's record.

(H) The investigative report shall include the following:

(1) An explanation of the allegation.

(2) Any background information deemed relevant by the agency.

(3) The results of the investigation, including whether probable cause was found to indicate the applicant or adoptive family made knowingly false statements.

(4) Any action steps to be taken by the applicant, adoptive family, or the agency as a result of the investigation.

(I) If the final investigative report concludes that the information or documentation was knowingly falsified, the agency shall do the following:

(1) Forward a copy of the investigative report to the county prosecutor's office where the adoptive applicant or adoptive family lives.

(2) If the adoptive applicant was still in the homestudy process, the agency shall close the adoption homestudy as if the applicant has voluntarily withdrawn from the homestudy process.

(3) If the adoptive homestudy was approved prior to the investigation of falsification, then the following limitations are in place:

(a) The adoption homestudy shall not be presented at any matching conference, pursuant to rule 5101:2-48-16 of the Administrative Code.

(b) The adoption homestudy shall not be released to another agency for sharing or transferring purposes, pursuant to rule 5101:2-48-19 of the Administrative Code.

(c) The adoption homestudy shall not be filed with the court for finalization purposes pursuant to section 3107.031 of the Revised Code.

(d) The adoption homestudy approval shall expire at the end of the current approval span.

(J) If the final investigative report concludes that there was no falsification made by the applicant, the agency shall:

(1) Resume the homestudy process if the applicant chooses to proceed.

(2) Complete the homestudy within one hundred eighty days from the date the investigative report was completed.

(K) Any documentation resulting from the requirements of this rule shall be maintained in the record of the adoptive applicant or adoptive family.

Last updated April 12, 2021 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3107.033
Amplifies: 3107.01, 3107.031
Five Year Review Date: 4/12/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 12/11/2006
Rule 5101:2-33-14 | PCSA requirements for recording a child fatality or near fatality.
 

(A) Upon receipt of information involving a child fatality or near fatality, the public children services agency (PCSA) shall record the information into the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) pursuant to rule 5101:2-36-01 of the Administrative Code.

(B) The PCSA shall categorize a child fatality or near fatality alleged to have occurred through known or suspected child abuse or neglect as a child abuse or neglect report.

(C) A near fatality includes allegations of known or suspected child abuse or neglect certified by a physician to place a child in serious or critical condition in accordance with the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-320, 12/20/10).

(D) The PCSA shall complete the child fatality/near fatality record in SACWIS, in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 5106A (1/2019), within five days of receipt of a referral pursuant to paragraph (B) of this rule when any of the following apply:

(1) The death of a child occurred while in the custody of the PCSA.

(2) The near fatality of a child occurred while in the custody of the PCSA.

(3) The death of a child resulting from suspected child abuse or neglect.

(4) The near fatality of a child resulting from suspected child abuse or neglect.

(E) The PCSA shall complete the following for a child fatality that meets the criteria identified in paragraph (D) of this rule:

(1) Notify the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction within one hour of its knowledge of the child's death pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-26 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Notify the local health department and/or the child fatality review board, pursuant to sections 3701.045 and 307.623 of the Revised Code.

(3) Amend the case plan pursuant to rule 5101:2-38-01 or 5101:2-38-05 of the Administrative Code, as applicable.

(4) If the child is in the temporary custody or a permanent planned living arrangement of the PCSA, the PCSA shall complete all of the following:

(a) Inform the parent, guardian, custodian of the child's death within one hour of receipt of the information.

(b) Assist the family in planning funeral arrangements, if requested.

(5) If the child is in the permanent custody of the PCSA, the PCSA shall complete all of the following:

(a) Determine whether notification to the parent, guardian, custodian or other relatives is appropriate.

(b) Assume responsibility for funeral arrangements.

(F) The PCSA shall update the child fatality/near fatality record in SACWIS within five days of receipt of any additional information required to be documented in the child fatality/near fatality record.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166, 5103.03
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.166
Five Year Review Date: 11/1/2024
Rule 5101:2-33-20 | PCSA complaint review and report disposition appeal policy.
 

(A) The public children services agency (PCSA) shall develop and implement written policies for receiving, reviewing and resolving both of the following:

(1) Complaints concerning the provision of services from parents, custodians, legal guardians, foster caregivers, kinship caretakers, applicants or providers of approved adult-supervised living arrangements, and children.

(2) Report disposition appeals by alleged perpetrators who disagree with the PCSA report disposition of a report of child abuse or neglect.

(B) The complaint review and report disposition appeal policies shall, at a minimum, identify all of the following information:

(1) Operational procedures for conducting both complaint reviews and report disposition appeal hearings including the PCSA's method of review and response to complaint reviews and report disposition appeals.

(2) The office or individual(s) involved in conducting complaint reviews and report disposition appeal hearings.

(3) Reasonable time frames for both of the following:

(a) Allowing the parties identified in paragraph (A) of this rule to request a complaint review or report disposition appeal.

(b) Conducting the review or hearing and issuing a finding.

(4) The method by which the PCSA will provide and communicate the policies related to complaint reviews and report disposition appeals to individuals who are hearing or visually impaired or who have limited English proficiency.

(C) Upon request, the PCSA shall provide written copies of the PCSA's complaint review and report disposition appeal policies to an individual within three working days from the date of the request.

(D) The PCSA personnel conducting complaint reviews and hearings regarding report disposition appeals cannot be involved in the case, including the assessment/investigation of the incident or the approval of the report disposition.

(E) The PCSA personnel conducting complaint reviews shall document in the case record the complaint, the complaint review process and the findings of the complaint review.

(F) The PCSA hearing personnel shall facilitate the report disposition appeal hearing and consider the totality of the information including the assessment/investigation information contained in the case record which led to the report disposition as well as any information presented by the PCSA and the appellant.

(G) The PCSA hearing personnel shall change the report disposition if any of the following circumstances occur:

(1) The report disposition was made in error.

(2) The appellant did not engage in conduct constituting child abuse or neglect as defined in sections 2151.03 and 2151.031 of the Revised Code.

(3) The report disposition is not supported by the totality of the information presented by the appellant or the PCSA or contained in the case record.

(H) The decision of the PCSA regarding the report disposition appeals shall be final and the decisions are not subject to state hearing review under section 5101.35 of the Revised Code.

(I) When an appeal of a PCSA report disposition of a report of child abuse or neglect is heard, the PCSA shall do all of the following:

(1) Document the report disposition appeal hearing process and findings in the case record.

(2) Update the statewide automated child welfare information system and notify the principals of the report in writing as to the revised report disposition if a report disposition appeal hearing results in the revision of the disposition.

(3) Maintain all documents submitted or reviewed during the report disposition appeal hearing in the case record.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166
Amplifies: 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 8/15/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 7/16/1981, 3/31/1997, 7/1/2014
Rule 5101:2-33-21 | Confidentiality and dissemination of child welfare information.
 

(A) Each referral, assessment/investigation and provision of services related to reports of child abuse, neglect, dependency, or family in need of services (FINS) is confidential. Information contained in the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) is confidential pursuant to section 5101.131 of the Revised Code. This information may be shared only when dissemination is authorized by this rule.

(B) If any information is disseminated, the public children services agency (PCSA) shall notify the receiver of the information that all of the following apply:

(1) The information is confidential and is not subject to disclosure pursuant to section 149.43 or 1347.08 of the Revised Code by the agency to whom the information was disclosed.

(2) Unauthorized dissemination of the contents of the information is in violation of section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

(3) Anyone who permits or encourages unauthorized dissemination of the contents of the information violates section 2151.99 of the Revised Code and such a violation is a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.

(C) The PCSA shall document in SACWIS that the dissemination of information occurred. Documentation shall include a summary of all of the following:

(1) The specific information disseminated.

(2) The date the information was disseminated.

(3) The agency, organization, or individual to whom the information was disseminated.

(4) The reason for the dissemination of information.

(5) If required, written authorization to disseminate information pursuant to paragraphs (H) and (R) of this rule.

(D) When any person commits, causes, permits, or encourages unauthorized dissemination of information, the PCSA shall give written notification of such unauthorized dissemination to the county prosecutor or city director of law and the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS). A copy of the written notification shall be maintained in the case record.

(E) The PCSA shall not release the identities of the referent/reporter, and any person providing information during the course of an assessment/investigation shall remain confidential. The identities of these individuals shall not be released or affirmed by the PCSA to any party without the written consent of the individual(s) involved, except to those individuals outlined in paragraph (F) of this rule.

(F) The PCSA shall release child welfare information to the following persons or entities:

(1) ODJFS staff with supervisory responsibility in the administration of Ohio's child welfare program.

(2) Law enforcement officials who are investigating a report of child abuse or neglect or that a person violated section 2921.14 of the Revised Code by knowingly making or causing another person to make a false report.

(3) The county prosecutor who is investigating a report of child abuse or neglect or that a person violated section 2921.14 of the Revised Code by knowingly making or causing another person to make a false report.

(4) Any PCSA or children services agency (CSA) assessing/investigating a child abuse or neglect report involving a principal of the case.

(5) The court, for the purpose of the issuance of a subpoena to the referent/reporter.

(G) The PCSA shall promptly disseminate all information determined to be relevant, except as specified in paragraph (E) of this rule, to any federal, state, or local governmental entity, or any agent of such entity, with a need for such information in order to carry out its responsibilities under law to protect children from abuse and neglect including but not limited to:

(1) Law enforcement officials, as set forth in the child abuse and neglect memorandum of understanding, to investigate a PCSA report of child abuse or neglect, a report of a missing child, or a report that a person has violated section 2921.14 of the Revised Code, by knowingly making or causing another person to make a false report of child abuse or neglect.

(2) The county prosecutor, to provide legal advice or initiate legal action on behalf of an alleged child victim; and to prosecute any person who has violated section 2921.14 of the Revised Code, by knowingly making or causing another person to make a false report of child abuse or neglect.

(3) A guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate pursuant to section 2151.281 of the Revised Code and the Ohio rules of superintendence rule 48.

(4) Any PCSA or CSA as defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code, which is currently assessing/investigating a report of child abuse or neglect involving a principal of the case or providing services to a principal of the case. In an emergency situation, the requested information may be released by telephone to a verified representative of a CSA. The PCSA releasing information will verify the identity, job title and authority/job duties of the CSA representative prior to releasing any information. All of the following information shall be released:

(a) The name and role of each principal of the case registered in any prior report.

(b) The date, allegation and disposition of each report or allegation.

(c) The name and telephone number of the county PCSA that conducted an assessment/investigation or provided services for each report.

(5) A coroner, to assist in the evaluation of a child's death due to alleged child abuse and/or neglect.

(6) Child abuse and neglect multidisciplinary team members, for consultation regarding investigative findings or the development and monitoring of a case plan.

(7) Public service providers working with a parent, guardian, custodian or caretaker or children of the family about whom the information is being provided, including but not limited to:

(a) Probation officers and caseworkers employed by the court, adult parole authority, rehabilitation and corrections, or the department of youth services.

(b) Employees of the local county boards of developmental disabilities and employees of the local county boards of alcohol drug addiction and mental health.

(8) A school administrator or designee for any child in the custody of the PCSA pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-90 of the Administrative Code and the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, 20 U.S.C. 6311(g)(1)(E).

(9) The licensing and supervising authorities of a public or non-public out-of-home care setting in which child abuse or neglect is alleged to have occurred.

(10) The approving authority of a kinship care setting in which child abuse or neglect is alleged to have occurred.

(11) Administrators of public out-of-home care settings in which child abuse or neglect is alleged to have occurred including but not limited to:

(a) Psychiatric hospitals managed by the Ohio department of mental health.

(b) Institutions managed by county courts for unruly or delinquent children.

(c) Institutions managed by the Ohio department of youth services.

(d) Institutions or programs managed by the Ohio department of developmental disabilities or local boards of developmental disabilities.

(12) Child abuse citizen review boards upon request.

(13) A child fatality review board recognized by the Ohio department of health, upon request except when a county prosecutor intends to prosecute or a judge prohibits release according to procedures contained in sections 5153.171, 5153.172 and 5153.173 of the Revised Code.

(14) A grand jury or court, as ordered.

(15) A children's advocacy center, as set forth in the PCSA child abuse and neglect memorandum of understanding, to comply with the protocols and procedures for receiving referrals and conducting investigations, to coordinate activities, and to provide services for reports alleging sexual abuse or other types of abuse.

(16) A CDJFS, for child care licensure pursuant to section 5153.175 of the Revised Code and for joint planning and sharing of information pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-28 of the Administrative Code.

(H) Except as specified in paragraph (E) of this rule or if disclosure would jeopardize a criminal investigation or proceeding, the PCSA shall promptly disseminate all information it determines to be relevant to an individual or agency, with written authorization from the PCSA director or designee, when it is believed to be in the best interest of any of the following:

(1) An alleged child victim, a child subject of the report, the family, or the caretaker.

(2) Any child residing within, or participating in an activity conducted by an out-of-home care setting when necessary to protect children in that setting.

(3) A child who is an alleged perpetrator.

(I) Upon receiving a request for disclosure to the public regarding the findings or information about a case of child abuse or neglect which has resulted in either a child fatality or a near fatality that, as certified by a physician, placed the child in serious or critical condition, the PCSA shall prohibit disclosure of such information if it is determined by the PCSA that any of the following would occur:

(1) Harm to the child or the child's family.

(2) Jeopardize a criminal investigation or proceeding.

(3) Interfere with the protection of those who report child abuse or neglect.

(J) If the PCSA has determined to disclose to the public information pursuant to paragraph (I) of this rule, the PCSA shall provide all of the following:

(1) The cause of and circumstances regarding the fatality or near fatality.

(2) The age and gender of the child.

(3) Information describing and the findings of any previous reports of child abuse or neglect assessment/investigations that are pertinent to the child abuse or neglect that led to the fatality or near fatality.

(4) Any services provided by the PCSA on behalf of the child that are pertinent to the child abuse or neglect that led to the fatality or near fatality.

(5) Any actions, including but not limited to court filings, removals or implementation of safety plans on behalf of the child that are pertinent to the child abuse or neglect that led to the fatality or near fatality.

(K) Upon request, the PCSA shall promptly disseminate to a mandated reporter, who makes a report of child abuse or neglect, information pursuant to section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

(1) Whether the PCSA has initiated an investigation.

(2) Whether the PCSA is continuing to investigate.

(3) Whether the PCSA is otherwise involved with the child who is the subject of the report.

(4) The general status of the health and safety of the child who is the subject of the report.

(5) Whether the report has resulted in the filing of a complaint in juvenile court or of criminal charges in another court.

(L) The PCSA shall promptly disseminate all information it determines to be relevant to the principals of the case, in accordance with Chapter 5101:2-36 of the Administrative Code, to inform them of the following:

(1) Each allegation contained in the report.

(2) All report dispositions resulting from the assessment/investigation.

(3) All case decisions resulting from the alternative response assessment.

(M) The PCSA shall promptly disseminate all information determined to be relevant, except as specified in paragraph (E) of this rule, to all of the following persons or entities:

(1) The non-custodial parent of the alleged child victim or child subject of the report, and children being provided services by the PCSA when the PCSA believes such sharing would be in the best interest of the child.

(2) A physician, for the diagnostic assessment of a child where there is reason to believe the child may be a victim of abuse or neglect.

(3) A private service provider, for diagnostic evaluations of and service provision to the alleged child victim or child subject of the report and his family.

(4) The administrator of a non-public out-of-home care setting in which child abuse or neglect is alleged to have occurred.

(5) A foster, relative and non-relative caregiver, as required by rule 5101:2-42-90 of the Administrative Code.

(6) The superintendent of public instruction, pursuant to section 5153.176 of the Revised Code, when the report involves a person who holds a license issued by the state board of education where the agency has determined that child abuse or neglect occurred and that abuse or neglect is related to the person's duties and responsibilities under the license.

(N) The PCSA shall utilize information outlined in paragraph (O) of this rule obtained from the alleged perpetrator search within SACWIS for the purpose of a background check for any of the following:

(1) Foster care licensure, pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-5 and 5101:2-7 of the Administrative Code.

(2) An adoption homestudy, pursuant to Chapter 5101:2-48 of the Administrative Code.

(3) A relative or non-relative caregiver approval for placement, pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-18 of the Administrative Code.

(O) The PCSA shall consider reports that meet the following criteria when the information is being used for a background check in accordance with paragraphs (N) and (G) (16) of this rule:

(1) Substantiated reports where the subject of the search was the alleged perpetrator.

(2) Indicated reports where the subject of the search was the alleged perpetrator.

(P) If releasing information pursuant to paragraphs (N) and (G) (16) of this rule, the PCSA shall not release any information pertaining to an unsubstantiated report or an alternative response report.

(Q) The PCSA shall refer any individual who inquires whether his or her name has been placed or remains within SACWIS as the alleged perpetrator of child abuse and/or neglect to ODJFS. An individual may submit a request to ODJFS. The request must contain the following:

(1) The individual's full name, including maiden and any other names utilized; address; date of birth and social security number.

(2) A copy of two of the following forms of identification, with at least one containing the individual's social security number:

(a) Social security card.

(b) Driver license.

(c) State identification card.

(d) Birth certificate.

(e) Passport or travel visa.

(R) At his or her sole discretion, a PCSA director or designee may disseminate information to a researcher in the area of child welfare, if the information is determined to be relevant to the researcher, and the results of the research will be beneficial to the county PCSA in administering child welfare programs/services. Authorization of the dissemation shall be documented. No direct access to SACWIS or any other state of Ohio database shall be requested by or on behalf of, nor approved for or granted to, any researcher pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-70 of the Administrative Code. The PCSA shall disclose only the minimum information needed by the researcher to perform the study, and, prior to disseminating information to any researcher, the PCSA shall require the researcher to sign an agreement which addresses all of the following:

(1) The researcher shall not disseminate confidential information containing names or data by which any individual or out-of-home care setting could be identified or deductively inferred.

(2) The PCSA shall review the research prior to its dissemination or publication to ensure that the research is void of names or data by which any individual or out-of-home care setting could be identified or deductively inferred.

(3) The researcher shall accept liability for unauthorized dissemination of information.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.421, 5101.134
Amplifies: 2151.421, 2151.423, 5101.13 , 5101.132, 5101.133
Five Year Review Date: 8/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 11/22/1981, 10/1/1982, 11/1/2011
Rule 5101:2-33-23 | Case records for children services.
 

(A) The public children services agency (PCSA) shall record case information in the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS). Case information that cannot be recorded in SACWIS shall be maintained as hard copy files, electronic files or as a combination of both.

(B) All case records prepared, maintained, and permanently kept by the PCSA are confidential. Access to PCSA case records and the release of PCSA case record information shall be conducted pursuant to and in accordance with the requirements outlined in rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code.

(C) The PCSA shall prepare, maintain, and permanently keep records for all referrals, related screening decisions, and information received by the agency pursuant to rule 5101:2-36-01 of the Administrative Code.

(D) The PCSA shall prepare, maintain, and permanently keep records for all of the following intake categories which the PCSA has received and/or conducted an assessment/investigation and required activities pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-36 and 5101:2-37 of the Administrative Code:

(1) Child abuse and/or neglect reports.

(2) Dependency reports.

(3) Family in need of services reports.

(4) Information and/or referral intakes.

(E) The PCSA shall prepare, maintain and permanently keep records on all cases for which the PCSA provided services including:

(1) Voluntary supportive services cases pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-37, 5101:2-38, and 5101:2-40 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Court ordered protective supervision cases pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-37, 5101:2-38, and 5101:2-40 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Substitute care cases pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-37, 5101:2-38, 5101:2-39, 5101:2-40, 5101:2-42, and 5101:2-47 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Adoption cases pursuant to Chapters 5101:2-37, 5101:2-38, 5101:2-39, 5101:2-40, 5101:2-42, 5101:2-48 and 5101:2-49 of the Administrative Code.

(F) Each case record prepared, maintained and permanently kept in accordance with this rule shall contain, but not be limited to, the following information, as applicable:

(1) Documentation that the PCSA has attempted to locate the correct address of the principals of the report, if necessary, and make required face-to-face contacts with the principals of the report as required in rule 5101:2-36-01 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Documentation of the PCSAs request and the corresponding rationale for requesting assistance from law enforcement during the course of the PCSAs assessment/investigation of a family, if applicable.

(3) Documentation of any involvement the PCSA had with law enforcement regarding missing children, death of a child, third-party investigative procedures, or any other assistance the PCSA requested from law enforcement as stipulated in the county child abuse and neglect memorandum of understanding.

(4) Reports from service providers, including but not limited to medical, educational, psychological, diagnostic, and treatment.

(5) Documentation of verbal, written, or electronic referrals and provision of services by the PCSA, county department of job and family services (CDJFS), other public and private agencies and community service providers on behalf of children and families being served by the PCSA, including any oral and/or written reports and the dates when services were delivered.

(6) Correspondence pertaining to the child and his family or caretaker.

(7) A copy of all complaints, motions, petitions, pleadings, and other documents submitted to the juvenile court by the PCSA or any other party.

(8) A copy of all court orders, findings, written determinations, and journalized entries from the juvenile court.

(9) Copies of supplemental plans, as applicable.

(10) A copy of any written materials presented during the semiannual administrative review(s).

(11) Transfer summaries prepared by the PCSA.

(12) Copies of applications for financial or social service support programs including, but not limited to Ohio works first (OWF), prevention, retention and contingency program, Title IV-B, Title IV-E, Title XX, medical assistance, supplemental security income, or children with medical handicaps program, and documentation supporting eligibility determinations made.

(13) A copy of the child's social security card or application for same.

(14) A copy of the childs birth certificate.

(G) The PCSA shall maintain case records that cannot be maintained in SACWIS in a consistent and organized manner such that required information set forth in this rule can be readily located. If the PCSA maintains any required information set forth in this rule in a location other than the case record, it shall be stated in the PCSA policy or noted in the case record where the information can be found.

Last updated October 12, 2023 at 9:40 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.421, 5103.03, 5153.166, 5153.17
Amplifies: 2151.421, 5103.03, 5153.16, 5153.17
Five Year Review Date: 5/12/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/2001, 3/1/2006
Rule 5101:2-33-26 | The county child abuse and neglect memorandum of understanding.
 

(A) The county child abuse and neglect memorandum of understanding, hereinafter referred to as the memorandum, is a document that sets forth the normal operating procedures to be employed by all concerned officials in the execution of their respective responsibilities when conducting a child abuse or neglect assessments/investigations. The purpose of the memorandum is to delineate clearly the role and responsibilities of each official or agency in assessing or investigating child abuse or neglect in the county. The respective duties and requirements of all involved shall be addressed in the memorandum.

(B) Each public children services agency (PCSA) is to prepare a memorandum and submit it to Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) before December thirty-first of each biennial year. PCSAs may complete the JFS 01425 "Model Memorandum of Understanding" using JFS 01425I "Instructions for the Model Memorandum of Understanding." The PCSA may create a template in lieu of the JFS 01425, containing all requirements outlined in the JFS 01425.

(C) The memorandum is to be signed by the following parties:

(1) The juvenile judge of the county or the juvenile judge's representative with approval from the juvenile judge; or if there is more than one juvenile judge in the county, a juvenile judge or the juvenile judge's representative selected by the juvenile judges or, if they are unable to do so for any reason, the juvenile judge who is senior in point of service or the senior juvenile judge's representative.

(2) The county peace officer.

(3) Chief peace officers of all political subdivisions within the county.

(4) Other law enforcement officers, designated by the chief of their department, assigned to investigate child abuse and neglect cases in the county.

(5) The prosecuting attorney of the county.

(6) The PCSA.

(7) If the PCSA is not the county department of job and family services (CDJFS), the CDJFS.

(8) The local animal cruelty reporting agency.

(9) If the PCSA participated in the execution of a memorandum under section 2151.426 of the Revised Code establishing a children's advocacy center, each participating member of the children's advocacy center.

(D) The clerk of the court of common pleas in the county may sign the memorandum.

(E) The memorandum shall include all of the following:

(1) A statement that failure to follow procedures set forth in the memorandum by the concerned officials is not grounds for, and shall not result in the dismissal of any charges or complaints arising from any reported case of abuse or neglect or the suppression of any evidence obtained as a result of any reported child abuse or neglect and does not give, and shall not be construed as giving, any rights or grounds for appeal or post-conviction relief to any person pursuant to section 2151.4223 of the Revised Code.

(2) The PCSA's system for receiving reports of child abuse and neglect twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week. If the PCSA contracts with an outside source to receive after-hour calls, a copy of a signed agreement shall be attached to the memorandum which indicates that all reports with identifying and demographic information of the reporter and principals of the report will be forwarded to a designated PCSA worker within an hour of receipt and that confidentiality requirements will be met. In addition, when the PCSA contracts with an outside source, the PCSA shall include in the memorandum its system for informing the general public of the after-hours phone number, as applicable.

(3) The roles and responsibilities of all concerned officials for responding to emergency and non-emergency reports of child abuse and neglect pursuant to section 2151.4221 of the Revised Code.

(4) A system for consultation among subscribers as it is deemed necessary to protect children. The county's system for consultation shall include at a minimum the PCSA's protocol for consulting with law enforcement, the prosecuting attorney's office, the juvenile judge, and if applicable, the children's advocacy center established pursuant to section 2151.426 of the Revised Code, for any cases which may require their intervention or assistance.

(5) Standards and procedures for handling and coordinating joint investigations of reported cases of child abuse and neglect including sharing of investigative reports and procedures specific to cases which:

(a) Involve out-of-home care child abuse or neglect.

(b) Involve third party investigative procedures and the assistance of law enforcement including addressing instances where law enforcement declines to assist the PCSA.

(c) Require law enforcement to respond immediately.

(d) Involve a child death in which abuse or neglect is suspected as the cause of death.

(e) Involve alleged withholding of medically indicated treatment from disabled infants with life-threatening conditions.

(i) Gathering and maintaining current information regarding the name, address, and telephone number of each appropriate health care facility within its jurisdiction.

(ii) Identifying and maintaining current data regarding the name, title, and telephone number of each facility's contact person for allegations involving alleged withholding of medically indicated treatment from disabled infants with life-threatening conditions.

(iii) Identifying and maintaining the name and chairperson of the appropriate health care facility's review committee, if such a committee exists.

(iv) Internal PCSA procedures for intervening in cases involving alleged withholding of medically indicated treatment from disabled infants with life-threatening conditions.

(f) Involve the death of a child who is in the custody of the PCSA in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-89 of the Administrative Code.

(g) Involve alleged child abuse and/or neglect constituting a crime against a child, including human trafficking, and require a joint assessment/investigation with law enforcement. The procedures shall include a statement of assurance as to how the PCSA will ensure child safety and not compromise the child protective assessment/investigation while concurrently assisting law enforcement with the criminal investigation.

(6) A statement addressing the PCSA's policy for requesting the assistance of law enforcement, which may include, but is not limited to:

(a) The PCSA has reason to believe the child is in immediate danger of serious harm.

(b) The PCSA has reason to believe the worker is, or will be in danger of harm.

(c) The PCSA has reason to believe that a crime is being committed, or has been committed against a child.

(d) An exigent circumstance exists.

(e) The PCSA worker must conduct a home visit after regular PCSA business hours and a law enforcement escort is requested as a standard operating procedure.

(f) The PCSA is removing a child from his or her family via an order of the court and the assistance of law enforcement is needed as the PCSA has reason to believe the family will challenge the removal.

(g) The PCSA is working with a client who has a propensity toward violence and the assistance of law enforcement is needed to ensure the safety of all involved.

(h) The PCSA is working with a family that has historically threatened to do harm to PCSA staff.

(7) A statement regarding the processes and procedures to attempt to ensure the assistance of law enforcement is obtained timely in cases where child abuse or neglect is alleged in order to ensure child safety and conduct investigative activities within the maximum sixty day time frame afforded PCSAs to complete abuse/neglect assessment/investigations pursuant to Chapter 5101:2-36 of the Administrative Code.

(8) Methods to be used in interviewing the child who is the subject of the report.

(9) Standards and procedures addressing the categories of persons who may interview the child who is the subject of the report.

(10) A system for the elimination of all unnecessary interviews of a child who is the subject of the report.

(11) A system for receiving and responding to reports involving:

(a) Individuals who aid, abet, induce, cause, encourage, or contribute to a child or a ward of the juvenile court:

(i) Becoming a dependent or neglected child.

(ii) Becoming an unruly or delinquent child.

(iii) Leaving the custody of any person, department, or public or private institution without the legal consent of that person, department, or institution.

(b) Missing children.

(12) Standards and procedures for removing and placing children on an emergency and non-emergency basis.

(13) The PCSA's system for notifying the county prosecuting attorney or city director of law when any mandated reporter of child abuse or neglect fails to report suspected or known child abuse or neglect.

(14) The PCSA's system for notifying the county prosecuting attorney or city director of law when there is unauthorized dissemination of confidential PCSA information.

(F) In accordance with rule 5101:2-5-13.1 of the Administrative Code, the memorandum may address how the PCSA would continue to maintain operations including, but not limited to, receiving and investigating child abuse and/or neglect reports in the event of a disaster.

(G) The PCSA is to ensure that every official pursuant to paragraphs (C) and (D) of this rule biennially:

(1) Reviews and evaluates the memorandum for updates to terms and procedures;

(2) Updates the memorandum terms and procedures, if it is determined that an update is necessary;

(3) Signs the reviewed memorandum.

(H) Upon obtaining the required signatures, the PCSA is to submit the signed memorandum to the board of county commissioners for approval.

(I) The PCSA is to submit a copy of the memorandum to Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) within thirty days from the board of county commissioners' approval and before December thirty-first each biennium for compliance determination.

(J) If ODJFS determines the memorandum to be compliant pursuant to section 2151.4230 of the Revised Code, the memorandum is considered effective and supersedes any previous memorandum. The PCSA is to post the memorandum to the general web site of the county within thirty days from the compliance determination.

(K) If ODJFS determines the memorandum is non-compliant, the PCSA is to submit a compliance assurance plan not later than sixty days from the date ODJFS determined the memorandum non-compliant.

(L) If there is a change to an individual who signed the memorandum pursuant to paragraphs (C) and (D) of this rule the PCSA is to provide the new individual with a copy of the current memorandum and obtain their signature acknowledging the memorandum. The new individual remains bound by the most recently approved version of the memorandum for the remainder of the biennium.

(M) If any required official refuses to sign the agreement, the PCSA is to document the reason(s) for the refusal to sign.

(N) If the PCSA revises a previously approved memorandum, the PCSA is to obtain all required signatures and submit a copy of the revised memorandum to ODJFS within ninety days.

Last updated September 15, 2022 at 9:18 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.421, 5153.166
Amplifies: 2151.421, 5153.16, 2151.4220, 2151.4221, 2151.4222, 2151.4223, 2151.4225, 2151.4226, 2151.4228, 2151.4229, 2151.4230, 2151.4231, 2151.4232, 2151.4233, 2151.4234
Five Year Review Date: 5/12/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/1983, 1/1/1987, 4/1/1987 (Emer.), 10/1/1991, 10/1/1995, 4/11/1996, 2/1/2003
Rule 5101:2-33-27 | Title IV-E agency contract and contract monitoring for non-placement services.
 

(A) Each Title IV-E agency, as defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code, is to use the statewide "agreement for Title IV-E agencies for the provision of non-placement services," hereinafter referred to as the " non-placement agreement," in the statewide automated child welfare system (SACWIS) when:

(1) Contracting for aftercare support from a qualified residential treatment program (QRTP) is negotiated at a different rate than the medicaid rate for non-medicaid eligible children.

(2) Contracting for aftercare services by a QRTP.

(3) The IV-E agency chooses to use the "non-placement agreement" for any non-placement service contract.

(B) Each Title IV-E agency is to enter all information on the "non-placement agreement," including the "Title IV-E schedule B rate information (schedule B)" into SACWIS.

(C) Each Title IV-E agency is to print the completed "non-placement agreement" and the "schedule B" from SACWIS in order to obtain signatures for the contract between the Title IV-E agency and the provider.

(D) The negotiated and agreed upon rate for the QRTP aftercare support is to be specified for all non-placement services in SACWIS on the "schedule B" and is to be attached to the "agreement for Title IV-E agencies and providers for the provision of child placement." The rates listed on the "schedule B" are to be for all children or may be child specific.

(E) The negotiated and agreed upon rate for the non-placement service is to be specified for all non-placement services in SACWIS on the "schedule B" and is to be attached to the "non-placement agreement." The rates listed on the "schedule B" are to be for all children or may be child specific.

(F) Any changes to the "non-placement agreement," including the "schedule B" are to include an addendum to be entered into SACWIS. The addendum is to be signed by all parties and attached to the "non-placement agreement," or the"agreement for Title IV-E agencies and providers for the provision of placement."

(G) Invoicing procedures are to at a minimum correspond to the agreed upon rates as specified on the "schedule B" in SACWIS and on the "non-placement agreement," including all addendums. All invoices are to include but are not limited to the following:

(1) Provider's name, address, telephone number, fax number, federal tax identification number, Title IV-E provider number, if applicable.

(2) Billing date and the billing period.

(3) Name of child, child's date of birth, and the child's SACWIS person identification number.

(4) Discharge date for the begin date of the six months of aftercare support, if applicable .

(H) Each Title IV-E agency is to establish a written monitoring procedure to provide reasonable assurance that the terms and conditions of the contract are being followed. Monitoring procedures may include, but are not limited to the following:

(1) A review of the progress reports submitted by the provider to the agency to ensure the services being delivered are in accordance with the child's treatment/discharge plan.

(2) ) A comparison of invoices to the agreed upon rate amount in SACWIS to ensure billing accuracy.

Last updated October 28, 2021 at 8:29 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.141, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5101.141, 5153.166
Five Year Review Date: 10/28/2026
Rule 5101:2-33-28 | Joint planning and sharing of information among the PCSA and CDJFS.
 

(A) Upon receipt of a request from the county department of job and family services (CDJFS), the public children services agency (PCSA) shall engage in joint planning and sharing of information with the CDJFS in order to:

(1) Assess, plan and provide coordinated services to children, families and adults receiving services from the PCSA and the CDJFS.

(2) Assist the CDJFS in establishing best interests statements for minor parents who apply for or participate in Ohio works first (OWF) pursuant to section 5107.24 of the Revised Code.

(3) Assist OWF families receiving services from the PCSA to implement provisions of their family assessment/appraisal and self-sufficiency contract.

(B) If the PCSA plans or shares information with the CDJFS in accordance with paragraph (A)(3) of this rule, the PCSA shall request a copy of the OWF self-sufficiency contract from the CDJFS. The PCSA shall indicate in the case record the date the request was made.

(C) The PCSA shall share information about PCSA services provided to children and families, including minor parents, who also receive assistance or services from the CDJFS. If sharing information with the CDJFS, the following information may be provided without consent of the family receiving services:

(1) Whether or not an assessment/investigation of child abuse or neglect has been initiated.

(2) Services provided as a result of a PCSA assessment/investigation of child abuse or neglect.

(3) General status of the health and safety of the child who is the subject of a report of child abuse or neglect.

(4) Whether or not a report of child abuse or neglect results in the filing of a complaint in juvenile court or criminal charges in another court.

(5) Whether or not an agreed upon or court ordered case plan is completed pursuant to section 2151.412 of the Revised Code. If a PCSA wants to include the "Comprehensive Assessment and Planning Model - I.S., Family Case Plan" as part of the OWF self-sufficiency contract, the PCSA shall follow procedures outlined in the OWF county plan of cooperation.

(D) If information is shared regarding assessments/investigations of child abuse and neglect reports, the PCSA shall:

(1) Not disclose the identity of the referent/reporter or any person providing information during the course of a child abuse or neglect assessment/investigation pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Inform the CDJFS in writing that all information regarding the child abuse or neglect assessment/investigation shall not be kept in the agency's case record but in a separate file the agency shall maintain.

(E) The PCSA shall notify the CDJFS if a child is removed from an OWF assistance group pursuant to rule 5101:2-39-01 of the Administrative Code and division (E)(1) of section 5107.10 of the Revised Code and procedures set forth in the OWF county plan of cooperation.

(F) If a PCSA identifies an OWF family in need of prevention, retention, and contingency (PRC) services; the PCSA shall follow procedures outlined in the OWF county plan of cooperation.

(G) Upon receipt of a request from the PCSA, the CDJFS shall assist the PCSA in obtaining case or assistance group information regarding a family's current participation in OWF or former participation in aid to families with dependent children (ADC) when the PCSA:

(1) Assesses Title IV-E eligibility for foster care maintenance or adoption assistance.

(2) Assesses/investigates a child abuse or neglect report.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.421, 5153.16
Amplifies: 2151.421, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 8/1/2025
Prior Effective Dates: 6/30/1997 (Emer.), 9/28/1997, 12/30/1997, 2/1/2003
Rule 5101:2-33-29 | Verification of United States citizenship and immigration status for all children in foster care.
 

(A) All Title IV-E agencies shall verify United States (U.S.) citizenship and immigration status for all children in foster care regardless of whether Title IV-E foster care maintenance (FCM) payments are made on their behalf.

(B) Documents that verify citizenship are:

(1) A U.S. birth certificate.

(2) A U.S. passport, unless it is authorized with a limitation; limited passports are issued through the department of homeland security (DHS).

(3) A certification of birth issued by the department of state (form DS-1350).

(4) A report of birth abroad of a U.S. citizen (form FS-240).

(5) A certificate of birth abroad (FS-545).

(6) A U.S. citizen identification card (I-197).

(7) A certificate of naturalization (N-550 or N-570).

(8) A certificate of U.S. citizenship (N-560 or N-561) for children who derived their citizenship through a parent.

(9) An extract from a hospital record on hospital letterhead established at the time of the individual's birth that was created at least five years before the initial date of custody, and indicates a U.S. place of birth. For a child under sixteen, the document must have been created near the time of birth.

(10) A life insurance, health insurance, or other insurance record showing a U.S. place of birth and created at least five years before the initial date of custody. For children under sixteen, the document must have been created near the time of birth.

(11) A statement provided from a U.S. consular officer certifying that the individual is a U.S. citizen.

(12) An American Indian card (I-872) issued by the department of homeland security (DHS) with the classification code "KIC" and a statement on the back identifying U.S. citizenship of members of the Texas band of Kickapoos living near the United States/Mexican border.

(13) A state match with the state data exchange (SDX) for supplemental security income (SSI).

(14) Birth information obtained by the Title IV-E agency through Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS)-authorized data exchanges or data sharing agreements.

(15) A federal or state census record showing U.S. citizenship or a U.S. place of birth, including an individual's age.

(16) Native American tribal documents, including but not limited to:

(a) A Seneca Indian tribal census record.

(b) The bureau of Indian affairs tribal census records of the Navajo Indians.

(c) A certificate of Indian blood.

(d) U.S. American tribal documents.

(e) Other native American tribal documents.

(17) Affidavits may be used only in rare circumstances when the agency is unable to secure evidence of citizenship from another listing. Affidavits are signed under penalty of perjury, but need not be notarized. If the documentation requirement needs to be met through affidavits, the following rules apply:

(a) There shall be at least two affidavits by people who have personal knowledge of the event(s) establishing the individual's claim of citizenship. The two affidavits could be combined in a joint affidavit. At least one of the persons making the affidavit cannot be related to the individual and neither person can be the individual.

(b) Persons making the affidavit must be able to provide proof of their own citizenship. The persons making the affidavit shall have information which explains why documentary evidence establishing the individual's claim of citizenship does not exist or cannot be readily obtained.

(C) For all children who are determined non-citizens, the Title IV-E agency shall obtain verification of their immigration status.

(D) A qualified non-citizen status shall be verified by one of the following:

(1) A non-citizen who is lawfully admitted for permanent residence (I-551) or (I-94) under the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 (INA).

(2) A non-citizen who is granted asylum (I-94) under section 208 of the INA.

(3) A refugee (I-94 or I-571) who is admitted to the U.S. under section 207 of the INA.

(4) A non-citizen whose deportation is being withheld (I-688B or I-766) under section 243(h) or section 241 (b)(3) of the INA.

(5) A non-citizen who is granted conditional entry (I-94) pursuant to section 203(a)(7) of the INA.

(6) A Cuban or Haitian entrant (I-551).

(7) A non-citizen or the child or parent of a non-citizen who has been battered or subjected to extreme cruelty in the U.S.

(8) An Afghan or Iraqi non-citizen granted special immigrant visa status under Section 8120 of the December 19, 2009 Defense Appropriations Bill (Pub. L. No. 111-118) and section 101(a)(27) of the INA (as in effect October 1, 2019).

(E) If a mother is a naturalized U.S. citizen and the baby was not born in the U.S., the baby's citizenship status would depend on whether the baby was born before or after the mother became a U.S. citizen. In most cases, when the parent becomes a naturalized U.S. citizen and the baby is living with the parent in the U.S., the baby would also become a U.S. citizen.

(F) A child who is in the U.S. under a visitor or tourist's visa or under a student arrangement does not meet the non-citizen status.

(G) All U.S. citizenship and immigration status verification documentation shall be kept in the child's case record regardless of the child's status.

(H) For a child who enters foster care, the Title IV-E agency shall verify citizenship or immigration status within sixty days of entrance.

Last updated February 7, 2022 at 8:41 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166
Amplifies: 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 2/7/2027
Prior Effective Dates: 3/15/2008
Rule 5101:2-33-55 | Education and training requirements for PCSA caseworkers.
 

(A) As used in this rule, "caseworker" is defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code.

(B) A public children services agency (PCSA) may hire an applicant as a caseworker only if the applicant has one or more of the following:

(1) A bachelor's degree in human services related studies.

(2) A bachelor's degree in any field and employed for at least two years in a human services related occupation.

(3) An associate's degree in human services related studies.

(4) At least five years of employment in a human services related occupation.

(C) PCSA caseworkers described in paragraph (B)(2), (B)(3), or (B)(4) of this rule hired on or after October 5, 2000, shall obtain a human services related bachelor's degree no later than five years after the date employment as a caseworker commences. The PCSA is to inform the PCSA caseworkers of the educational requirements for continuing employment.

(D) PCSA caseworkers hired after January 1, 2007, are to complete the Ohio child welfare training program's (OCWTP's) caseworker core training during the first year of the caseworker's continuous employment as a caseworker unless a waiver is approved in accordance with paragraph (E) of this rule.

(E) The PCSA director or designee may waive any caseworker core course requirements as described in paragraph (D) of this rule by completing and signing the OCWTP core waiver form. The completed OCWTP core waiver form is to be on file in the statewide learning management system (LMS) within six months of the date the PCSA caseworker's employment as a caseworker commences.

(F) If the PCSA director or designee waives any applicable caseworker core course requirements pursuant to paragraph (E) of this rule, the PCSA is to:

(1) Provide the caseworker with information on current policy and procedure.

(2) Have the caseworker complete a minimum of thirty-six hours of annual training and/or coaching pursuant to paragraph (G) of this rule.

(G) PCSA caseworkers are to complete thirty-six hours of annual training and/or coaching after their first year of continuous employment as a part-time or full-time caseworker. The training and/or coaching activities are to be relevant to the caseworker's assigned duties, approved by the caseworker's supervisor, and entered into the statewide LMS. For caseworkers subject to the provisions of rule 5101:2-20-07 of the Administrative Code, at least six hours of the required thirty-six hours of ongoing training are to be courses related to adult protective services (APS).

(H) PCSA caseworkers shall complete an approved domestic violence and an approved human trafficking training listed within the statewide LMS.

(1) PCSA caseworkers hired after January 1, 2007, are to complete these trainings within two years of continuous employment.

(2) PCSA caseworkers who were previously employed as PCSA caseworkers within the last two years and completed a domestic violence and a human trafficking training recorded in the statewide LMS are exempt from this requirement.

(I) PCSA staff supervising caseworkers shall work with each caseworker to complete the individual training needs assessment (ITNA) and follow the instructions set forth by the OCWTP for submission. The ITNA for a caseworker is to be completed at least once every two years. Training needs of a caseworker shall be based upon the following:

(1) Prior background, performance, and experience of the caseworker.

(2) Job duties and responsibilities of the caseworker.

(3) Competencies the caseworker and supervisor identify as needs.

(J) The caseworker and supervisor shall jointly develop a training plan to address needed competencies. This training plan will be accessible within the statewide LMS. The PCSA may contact the OCWTP regional training center for assistance in identifying appropriate training and/or coaching activities for the caseworker.

(K) The PCSA shall be responsible for the following:

(1) Ensuring newly hired PCSA caseworkers are provisioned into the statewide LMS within thirty days of the date employment with the agency commences.

(2) Maintaining all work-related education and training records for PCSA caseworkers, including college transcripts and documentation of compliance with paragraphs (B) and (C) of this rule, and following the instructions set forth by the OCWTP for submission.

Last updated January 17, 2024 at 8:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.124
Amplifies: 5153.112, 5153.122, 5153.123, 5153.124, 5153.125, 5153.127
Five Year Review Date: 10/31/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 8/17/2009, 5/1/2013, 6/1/2017, 6/15/2022
Rule 5101:2-33-56 | Training requirements for PCSA supervisors.
 

(A) As used in this rule, "supervisor" is defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Public children services agency (PCSA) supervisors are to complete supervisory core training offered by the Ohio child welfare training program (OCWTP), including core course(s) in screening reports of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, during their first year of continuous employment as a supervisor.

(C) PCSA supervisors are to complete thirty hours of annual in-service training and/or coaching after their first year of continuous employment as part-time or full-time supervisors. The training and/or coaching activities are to be in areas relevant to the supervisor's assigned duties, approved by the PCSA director or designee, and entered into the statewide learning management system (LMS).

(D) PCSA supervisors are to complete an approved domestic violence training and an approved human trafficking training listed within the statewide LMS.

(1) PCSA supervisors hired after January 1, 2007, are to complete these trainings within two years of continuous employment as a supervisor if hired or promoted as a supervisor.

(2) PCSA supervisors who completed a domestic violence and a human trafficking training already recorded in the statewide LMS are exempt from this requirement.

(E) The PCSA director or designee shall work with each supervisor to complete the individual training needs assessment (ITNA) and follow the instructions set forth by the OCWTP for submission. The ITNA for a supervisor is to be completed at least once every two years. Training needs of a supervisor shall be based upon the following:

(1) Prior background, performance, and experience of the supervisor.

(2) Relevant assigned job duties and responsibilities of the supervisor.

(3) Competencies the supervisor and the immediate supervisor identify as needs.

(F) The supervisor and their immediate supervisor shall jointly develop a training plan. This training plan will be accessible within the statewide LMS. The PCSA may contact the OCWTP regional training centers for assistance in identifying appropriate training and/or coaching activities for the supervisor. For supervisors subject to the provisions of rule 5101:2-20-07 of the Administrative Code, at least six hours of the required thirty hours of ongoing training are to be courses related to adult protective services (APS).

(G) The PCSA is to be responsible for the following:

(1) Ensuring newly hired or promoted PCSA supervisors are provisioned into the statewide LMS within thirty days of the date of employment as a supervisor commences.

(2) Maintaining all work-related education and training records for PCSA supervisors and following the instructions set forth by the OCWTP for submission.

Last updated January 17, 2024 at 8:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.123
Amplifies: 5153.123, 5153.124, 5153.126, 5153.127
Five Year Review Date: 10/31/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 2/1/2003, 10/31/2019
Rule 5101:2-33-70 | Statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) access.
 

(A) The Ohio statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) shall be established and maintained in accordance with the requirements of 42 U.S.C. 674 (a)(3)(C) (2008). Access to and use of data in Ohio SACWIS shall be limited to the extent necessary to carry out the child welfare program under Title IV-B of the Social Security Act of 1967, P.L. 109-288, 120 Stat. 1244 (2006), the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, 110 Stat. 3064 (1996), 42 U.S.C. 5101, Title IV-E of the Social Security Act of 1967, 110 Stat. 2166 (1996), 42 U.S.C. 670, and Title XX of the Social Security Act, 124 Stat. 803 (2010), 42 U.S.C. 1397.

(B) The data in Ohio SACWIS is confidential and access to any child welfare information shall be pursuant to this rule or section 5101.132 of the Revised Code.

(C) The data in Ohio SACWIS is confidential and release of any child welfare information shall be pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code and sections 5101.13 to 5101.134 of the Revised Code.

(D) Personnel having access to Ohio SACWIS shall be limited to those persons who have been trained in the confidentiality requirements of Ohio SACWIS, who are informed of all penalties, who have been trained in security procedures, and who have signed the JFS 07078 "Code of Responsibility."

(E) In addition to the criminal penalty provision listed in section 5101.99 of the Revised Code, the public children services agencies (PCSA) shall have administrative penalties, up to and including dismissal from employment, for unauthorized access to or disclosure or use of data in Ohio SACWIS.

(F) The PCSA shall enter applicable child welfare information required in this rule and/or by federal or state statute, regulation, or rule directly into Ohio SACWIS. Failure to enter such child welfare information may result in sanctions in accordance with section 5101.24 of the Revised Code or withholding of state and/or federal funding.

(G) Each PCSA shall enter children services data into Ohio SACWIS including, but not limited to:

(1) Information listed in rule 5101:2-33-23 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Intake and assessment/investigation including assessment tools.

(3) Case notes and dictation concerning the activities and statements of persons involved in the case, describing the activity or statement, naming the persons involved, and stating the date of the occurrence. Case notes or dictation shall be prepared by or under the supervision of the staff member with the most direct knowledge of the occurrence. Opinions of PCSA staff and others included in case notes or dictation shall be identified as such.

(4) Case status information.

(5) Case plan, case review(s), court information and services, including documentation of verbal, written, or electronic referrals and the provision of services on behalf of children and families served by the PCSA.

(6) A summary of reports received from service providers, including oral, written or electronic summaries, and the dates when services were received.

(7) Custody and placement information.

(8) Adoption information including recruitment activities, pre-adoptive staffing, or matching conference information.

(9) Provider record including homestudies, recruitment plans and events.

(10) Child welfare related agency administrative and training activities.

(11) Financial eligibility and re-determinations, record reimbursement and actual cost information, and financial information to support accounts payable to counties and providers.

(12) Exchange data with support enforcement tracking system (SETS), medicaid information technology system (MITS), and client registry information system-enhanced (CRIS-E) to determine eligibility and the central accounting system (CAS), auditor of state (AOS) to disburse payments, Ohio benefits worker portal (OBWP) and any federally mandated exchange.

(13) Data as required by section 479 of the Social Security Act of 1967 (42 U.S.C. 679) (2014); 45 C.F.R. parts 1355 (2012), 1356 (2012), and 1357 (2001) for the adoption and foster care analysis and reporting system (AFCARS); national child abuse and neglect data system (NCANDS); child and family services reviews (CFSR); child protection and oversight evaluation (CPOE) system; national youth transition database (NYTD) and Multiethnic Placement Act, Oct. 20, 1994, P.L. 103-382, as amended by section 1808 of the Small Business Job Protection Act of 1996, Aug. 20, 1996, P.L. 104-188 (MEPA), and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI).

(14) Any other data identified by the department as necessary to reflect current case activities including, but not limited to, case, services, person, placement resource or licensing information, financial information or agency status.

(H) Private child placing agencies (PCPAs) and private non-custodial agencies (PNAs) that have access to Ohio SACWIS are to enter the following information into Ohio SACWIS. The PCPA and PNA granting any PCPA or PNA personnel access to Ohio SACWIS are to follow the same process as a PCSA in paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(1) Information necessary for recommending licensure of foster homes and approval of adoptive homes.

(2) Information necessary for submitting training reimbursement requests.

(3) Provider record information including homestudies and recruitment plans.

(4) Any other data identified by the department as necessary to reflect current provider activities including, but not limited to, services, person, licensing information and financial information.

(5) Any visits completed pursuant to rules 5101:2-5-36, 5101:2-5-37 and 5101:2-42-65 of the Administrative Code.

(I) PCSAs, PCPAs, PNAs, and local public entities (LPE) operating a qualified residential treatment program (QRTP) facility are to enter the following information for all youth placed in the facility in the residential treatment information system (RTIS) of Ohio SACWIS pursant to rule 5101:2-9-42 of the Administrative Code:

(1) Discharge planning activities.

(2) Aftercare support.

(J) Any juvenile court, that is a sub grantee with ODJFS for the purposes of Title IV-E financial reimbursement, shall enter information into Ohio SACWIS regarding the provision of services to any child who is at risk of child abuse and neglect and Title IV-E financial reimbursement is being requested. The juvenile court, that is a sub grantee with ODJFS for the purposes of Title IV-E financial reimbursement, granting any juvenile court personnel access to Ohio SACWIS for the purposes of Title IV-E financial reimbursement shall do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(K) A prosecuting attorney, who represents a PCSA, shall be permitted Ohio SACWIS access if directly connected with assessment, investigation, or services regarding a child or family. The PCSA shall do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(L) If a PCSA is utilizing a "Wendy's Wonderful Kids" (WWK) recruiter employed by another PCSA, PCPA, or PNA, the PCSA responsible for the child's case is to permit the WWK recruiter direct Ohio SACWIS access to review and record information related to any child or sibling group being provided services by the WWK recruiter. The PCSA shall do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(M) If a PCSA is implementing "30 Days to Family," the PCSA may permit the "30 Days to Family" staff to have direct Ohio SACWIS access to review and record information related to any child or sibling group eligible for, or being provided services through "30 Days to Family." The PCSA will do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(N) If a PCSA is implementing a peer mentor or partner program, the PCSA may permit the peer mentor or parent partner to have direct Ohio SACWIS access to review and record information related to any parent, child or sibling group eligible for, or being provided services through the program. The PCSA will do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule.

(O) If a PCSA grants a PCSA intern access to Ohio SACWIS, the PCSA shall do so in accordance with paragraphs (A) to (E) of this rule. Any case record information recorded into Ohio SACWIS by an intern shall be reviewed and approved by the PCSA director or designee.

(P) Pursuant to section 5101.899 of the Revised Code, the youth and family ombudsman office is to have access to only the records of the department of job and family services that are necessary for the administration of sections 5101.89 to 5101.899 of the Revised Code in the performance of its official duties, including records maintained in Ohio SACWIS under section 5101.13 of the Revised Code.

(Q) The PCSA, PCPA, PNA, LPE or court is to enter and update information in Ohio SACWIS and/or RTIS pursuant to this rule each work day or as information becomes available.

(R) No direct access to Ohio SACWIS, RTIS, or any other state of Ohio database shall be requested by or on behalf of, nor approved for or granted to, any researcher conducting research under paragraph (R) of rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code.

(S) PCSAs, PCPAs, PNAs, LPEs and courts are to monitor access and use of Ohio SACWIS to prevent and identify unauthorized use.

(T) To avoid a conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest, any PCSA, PCPA, PNA, LPE or court employee or contractor who has been granted access to Ohio SACWIS is not to enter or access any information for any of the following persons:

(1) Themselves.

(2) Any person who is a relative of the employee or contractor, as defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Any individual who has any supervisory responsibility for the employee or contractor.

(U) Any PCSA, PCPA, PNA, LPE or court employee or contractor who has signed and agreed to the terms contained on the JFS 07078 "Code of Responsibility" and has been granted access to Ohio SACWIS is to be held responsible for complying with all responsibilities outlined in the JFS 07078.

(V) A PCSA, PCPA, PNA, LPE or court which is found by ODJFS to have a finding of noncompliance with paragraph (A) or (B) of this rule, or the agreements outlined on the JFS 07078 "Code of Responsibility," is to comply with a corrective action plan as outlined in rule 5101:2-5-06 of the Administrative Code.

(W) The term "access to Ohio SACWIS," and any variation thereof, as used in this rule and in Chapter 5101:2-33 of the Administrative Code, is not synonymous with "disseminate all information" as used in rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code. Ohio SACWIS access shall only be granted if expressly permitted by state law or rule.

Last updated October 3, 2022 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.134
Amplifies: 5101.13, 5101.131, 5101.132, 5101.133, 5101.899
Five Year Review Date: 4/12/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 4/12/2021
Rule 5101:2-33-80 | Retained applicant fingerprint database information exchange (Rapback).
 

(A) A public children services agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA) or private noncustodial agency (PNA) shall establish an e-mail account in order to receive electronic notifications regarding the retained applicant database information exchange.

(B) The agency shall submit the e-mail account information to ODJFS according to the following:

(1) Within ten days of receiving its license from ODJFS.

(2) Within twenty-four hours of changing the e-mail account information, if the information changes after submission to ODJFS.

(C) The PCSA, PCPA or a PNA shall enter the following information regarding any adult household member subject to a criminal records check into the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS):

(1) Legal name.

(2) Date of birth.

(3) Authentication number from the Ohio bureau of criminal investigation (BCI).

(D) The information required in paragraph (C) of this rule shall be completed as follows:

(1) Upon the recommendation to certify or approve a foster or adoptive home.

(2) Within ten days after the receipt of a criminal records check from BCI involving a change in occupancy for a new household member.

(E) If the agency receives a notification that an individual in the home of a certified foster caregiver or in the home of a person approved for adoption has been fingerprinted in relation to a crime, the agency shall review the information using the web portal at: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov.

(F) The agency shall review any additional information within one business day of receiving it from (BCI).

(G) If a home is certified as a foster home and approved for adoption by two different agencies, each agency shall perform the requirements of this rule.

(H) If the "Rapback" information indicates that a person in the household of a certified foster caregiver or in the home of a person approved for adoption has been arrested, convicted, or plead guilty to any offense, the agency shall take appropriate action within twenty-four hours of receiving the information. Appropriate action at a minimum shall include:

(1) Contact the local law enforcement agency that made the arrest.

(2) Notify, within twenty-four hours, any other agency that holds custody of a child in the home and inform the agency of the information received.

(3) Re-evaluate the household to ensure the home will not jeopardize in any way the health, safety or welfare of the children in the home.

(I) The agency shall complete the JFS 01301 "Retained Applicant Fingerprint Database Post-Notification Report" (12/2008) in SACWIS within ten business days after taking action as described in paragraph (H) of this rule.

(J) The agency shall document all "Rapback" information and results in SACWIS.

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.32
Amplifies: 109.5721, 5101.32
Five Year Review Date: 5/1/2024
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/2010