Chapter 5180:2-42 | Substitute Care

Rule 5180:2-42-06 | "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" (JFS 01645).

• Effective: July 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The JFS 01645 "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" is the sole form prescribed by the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS), pursuant to section 5103.15 of the Revised Code. The JFS 01645 is to be utilized for all such agreements.

(B) Execution of the JFS 01645 creates the status of temporary custody with a public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) for a specified time period subject to the provisions of rule 5101:2-42-08 of the Administrative Code. The agreement for temporary custody may be terminated at the request of either party prior to expiration of the specified time period.

(C) By execution of the JFS 01645, a PCSA or PCPA accepts the responsibilities as specified on the JFS 01645, in addition to any further responsibility imposed by law on one who holds temporary custody of a child.

(D) By execution of the JFS 01645, a PCSA or PCPA is given authority for action as specified on the JFS 01645, in addition to any further responsibility prescribed by law to one who holds temporary custody of a child.

(E) By execution of the JFS 01645, the parent, guardian, or custodian accepts the responsibility as specified on the JFS 01645, in addition to those imposed by law.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.15, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 9/28/1987, 2/1/2003, 4/20/2008

Rule 5180:2-42-07 | Extension of "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" (JFS 01645).

• Effective: July 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The JFS 01645 "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" is the sole form prescribed by the Ohio department of job and family services pursuant to section 5103.15 of the Revised Code. The JFS 01645 is to be utilized for an original or additional thirty-day extension of an agreement for temporary custody of a child.

(B) Court approval of the JFS 01645, either for an original or additional extension extends the status of the agreement with the public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) for the specified time period in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-08 of the Administrative Code.

(C) An extension of the temporary custody by agreement may be terminated at the request of either party prior to expiration of the specified time period. The PCSA or PCPA is to notify the court of such termination within seven days.

(D) A PCSA or PCPA is to accept the responsibilities as specified on a court-approved JFS 01645, in addition to any further responsibility imposed by law on one who holds temporary custody of a child.

(E) A PCSA or PCPA is given authority for action as specified on the court-approved JFS 01645, in addition to any further responsibility imposed by law on one who holds temporary custody of a child.

(F) The parent, guardian, or custodian, accepts the responsibility as specified on the court-approved JFS 01645, in addition to those imposed by law.

Last updated February 11, 2026 at 7:54 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.15, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1989, 4/20/2008

Rule 5180:2-42-12 | Assessment to determine child's placement into a qualified residential treatment program.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) For the purpose of qualified residential treatment programs (QRTP), a qualified individual is a trained professional or licensed clinician who:

(1) Is not connected to or affiliated with any placement setting in which children could be placed,

(2) Is trained to administer the assessment tool outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule, with evidence of child and adolescent needs and strengths (CANS) training and a current CANS certification kept in the employee's file.

(3) Maintains objectivity with respect to determining the most effective and appropriate placement for a child.

(4) Is knowledgeable on local resources to support a child's ongoing needs.

(5) Meets one of the following options:

(a) Is a title IV-E agency employee who is not in the chain of command of the case oversight or placement decision-making.

(b) Is a local service provider who enters into an agreement with the title IV-E agency. The service provider cannot serve as the qualified individual if they are under another title IV-E agency contract and their objectivity is compromised.

(c) Is a title IV-E agency employee provided through an established agreement with at least one other title IV-E agency.

(d) Is employed by ODJFS and is not in the chain of command of a fiscal or licensing bureau.

(e) Is a vendor contracted by the state and is not in the chain of command of a fiscal or licensing bureau.

(B) Prior to placement in a QRTP or no later than thirty days after the date of each placement in a QRTP, a qualified individual is to:

(1) Complete an assessment of the strengths and needs of the child in title IV-E agency custody using the "Ohio Brief" or "Ohio Comprehensive" versions of the CANS tool.

(2) Complete the assessment in conjunction with the family and permanency team for the child.

(a) The PCSA is responsible for assembling the family and permanency team. The family and permanency team is to consist of all appropriate family members, relatives, and kin of the child, as well as appropriate professionals who are a resource to the family of the child, such as teachers, medical or mental health providers who have treated the child, or clergy.

(b) In the case of a child who has attained age fourteen, the family and permanency team is to include the members that are selected by the child as outlined in rules 5101:2-38-05 and 5101:2-38-07 of the Administrative Code.

(c) The PCSA may use an existing team for the purpose of the family and permanency team if the team composition meets the requirements outlined in paragraph (B)(2) of this rule.

(3) Develop a list of child specific short and long term mental and behavioral health goals.

(C) Based on the information outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule, the qualified individual is to determine whether the needs of the child can be met with family members, kin, or through placement in a foster home and which setting would provide the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment and be consistent with the short and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the family case plan for the child outlined in rules 5101:2-38-05, 5101:2-38-05.1 and 5101:2-38-07 of the Administrative Code.

(D) If the qualified individual completing the assessment outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule determines the child should not be placed with family members, kin, or in a foster home, the qualified individual is to specify in writing all of the following:

(1) The reasons why the needs of the child cannot be met by the family of the child, kin, or in a foster home. A lack of available foster homes is not an acceptable reason for determining that the needs of the child cannot be met in a foster home.

(2) The reasons why the placement into a QRTP is the recommended setting that will provide the child with the most effective and appropriate level of care in the least restrictive environment.

(3) How the placement into the QRTP is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the family case plan for the child.

(E) Within sixty days of the start of each title IV-E eligible child's placement into a QRTP, the title IV-E agency is to work collaboratively with the juvenile court to ensure the court:

(1) Considers the assessment, determination, and documentation made by the qualified individual conducting the assessment outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(2) Determines whether the needs of the child can be met through placement in a foster home, or, if not, whether the placement of the child in a QRTP provides the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment and whether that placement is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the family case plan.

(3) Approves or disapproves of the placement of the child in a QRTP.

(F) Upon completion of the requirements outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule, if the qualified individual determines the child should not be placed in a QRTP or if the juvenile court disapproves of the placement in a QRTP, the family and permanency team is to consider the appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment as outlined in rule 5101:2-42-05 of the Administrative Code.

(G) When a child is placed in a QRTP, the title IV-E agency is to submit to the court the following at each semi-annual review and permanency hearing:

(1) Evidence that the ongoing assessment of the strengths and needs of the child continues to support the determination that the needs of the child cannot be met through placement in a foster home.

(2) Documentation that the placement of the child in the QRTP provides the most effective level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment.

(3) Documentation that continued placement in the QRTP is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the family case plan for the child.

(4) Documentation of the specific treatment or service needs that will be met for the child in the QRTP and the length of time the child is expected to need the treatment or services.

(5) Documentation of the efforts made by the title IV-E agency to prepare the child to return home or to be placed with a fit and willing kinship caregiver, legal guardian, adoptive parent, or in a foster home.

(H) For any child placed in a QRTP for more than twelve consecutive months or eighteen nonconsecutive months, or for any child who has not attained the age of thirteen and is placed in a QRTP for more than six consecutive or nonconsecutive months, the title IV-E agency is to document in the case record:

(1) The most recent versions of the evidence and documentation outlined in paragraph (G) of this rule; and

(2) The signed approval of the title IV-E agency director for the continued placement of the child in the QRTP.

(I) The title IV-E agency is to ensure that all requirements located in this rule are documented in the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS).

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166, 5103.03, 2151.412
Amplifies: 5153.16, 5103.03, 2151.412
Five Year Review Date: 10/1/2026

Rule 5180:2-42-12.1 | Assessment for a child when a non-qualified residential treatment program meets qualified residential treatment program certification requirements.

• Effective: June 15, 2022
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

For each IV-E eligible child placed in a non-qualified residential treatment program (non-QRTP) on or after October 1, 2021, the requirements outlined in rule 5101:2-42-12 of the Administrative Code are to be followed by the IV-E agency beginning with the effective date the non-QRTP has met the qualified residential treatment program (QRTP) certification requirements and is considered compliant.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.16, 5103.03, 2151.412
Amplifies: 5153.16, 5103.03, 2151.412
Five Year Review Date: 6/15/2027

Rule 5180:2-42-18 | PCSA and PCPA approval of placements with relative and nonrelative substitute caregivers.

• Effective: July 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) A public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) having custody of a child, or upon interstate request by a state with jurisdiction, may approve placement with the following substitute caregivers in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-05 of the Administrative Code if the placement is determined to be in the child's best interest and the substitute caregivers are not certified through the Ohio department of job and family services:

(1) A relative by blood, adoption, or marriage who, in accordance with sections 5103.02 and 5103.03 of the Revised Code, is exempt from certification and who is being considered as a substitute caregiver; or

(2) A nonrelative who has a relationship with the child and/or family and who, in accordance with section 5153.161 of the Revised Code, is a qualified non-relative.

(B) Prior to placing the child with the relative or nonrelative substitute caregiver, the PCSA or PCPA shall adhere to the following procedures and document its actions in approving the placement setting:

(1) Collect identifying information (first name, last name, maiden name, aliases, social security number, address, telephone number, place of employment) on the prospective caregiver and all household members.

(2) Require all adults in the home to identify prior PCSA or children services agency (CSA) involvement.

(3) Assure that a search of the statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS) has been completed for the prospective caregiver and adult household members pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-21 of the Administrative Code.

(a) If the agency has the ability to access SACWIS pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-70 of the Administrative Code and section 5101.132 of the Revised Code, the agency shall complete an alleged perpetrator search of abuse and neglect report history through SACWIS for the prospective caregiver and each adult who resides in the home.

(b) If the agency does not have the ability to access SACWIS, the agency shall request a search of SACWIS from the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) for the prospective caregiver and each adult who resides in the home and shall secure the necessary releases of information and initiate requests for information when applicable.

(4) When involvement with a CSA in another state is indicated or suspected, the PCSA or PCPA shall request a check of the child abuse and neglect registry from the other state.

(5) When the home of the relative or nonrelative substitute caregiver is a licensed foster home or approved adoptive home, the PCSA or PCPA is to notify the recommending agency of the intent to place the kinship child in the home. The PCSA or PCPA should consider placing the child as a foster care placement if appropriate.

(6) Assess the safety of the home by checking on all of the following:

(a) Cleanliness of the home.

(b) Absence of hazardous conditions inside and outside.

(c) Storing of poisonous and otherwise dangerous or combustible materials.

(d) Proper heating, lighting and ventilation.

(e) Condition of plumbing and toilet facilities.

(f) Installation of a working smoke alarm on each level of occupancy of the home.

(g) Safe storing of weapons, including firearms and ammunitions, in inoperative condition and in a secured and locked area.

(h) Adequacy of each child's bedding and appropriateness to his or her needs.

(i) Availability of a working telephone within the home or reasonable access to a working telephone for emergency situations.

(7) Provide the prospective caregiver with known information regarding educational, medical, prescription and nonprescription medications, child care, and special needs of the child including information on how to access support services to meet the needs of the child.

(8) Provide the prospective caregiver with the following information:

(a) Information about the kinship support program (KSP), including eligibility requirements and details about payments and payment timeframes, in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-18.2 of the Administrative Code.

(b) How to apply for Ohio works first (OWF) child-only financial assistance and medicaid coverage.

(c) The caregiver's right to apply for certification as a foster caregiver.

(d) How to apply for certification as a foster caregiver.

(e) The requirements for foster caregiver certification and adoption approval and how those requirements differ from the requirements for approval as a relative or nonrelative substitute caregiver.

(f) The difference in payment between OWF child-only payments, KSP payments, and the foster care per diem.

(g) The difference (if any) in the eligibility for supportive services.

(h) The caregiver's right to be heard during hearings involving the child(ren) if the placement is approved.

(9) Assess the prospective caregiver's ability and willingness to provide care and supervision of the child and to provide a safe and appropriate placement for the child.

(10) Submit fingerprints for the prospective relative or nonrelative caregiver and all adults residing within the home according to the requirements of the bureau of criminal investigation (BCI). The agency shall request that BCI include information from the federal bureau of investigation (FBI) in the criminal records check. The required criminal records check must be completed prior to an agency approving the prospective relative or nonrelative placement.

(11) Complete a review of the national sex offender registry at https://www.nsopw.gov (2019) for the prospective relative or nonrelative caregiver and all adults residing within the home.

(12) Require the prospective caregiver to submit written notification if a person at least twelve years of age but less than eighteen years of age residing within the home of the prospective caregiver has been convicted of or plead guilty to any offenses described in section 5103.0319 of the Revised Code, or has been adjudicated to be a delinquent child for committing an act that if committed by an adult would have constituted such a violation.

(C) If a child must be removed from his or her home immediately in accordance with rules 5101:2-39-01 and 5101:2-39-03 of the Administrative Code, the PCSA or PCPA may place the child with the prospective relative or nonrelative substitute caregiver, if there are no known safety concerns, and initiate the assessments required by paragraph (B) of this rule no later than the next business day.

(1) The PCSA or PCPA shall complete all activities required by paragraph (B) of this rule no later than five business days from the date the child was placed.

(2) The PCSA or PCPA shall make a final decision to approve or not approve the placement of the child no later than five business days from the date the agency receives the BCI and FBI background check results and/or alleged perpetrator background check results.

(3) The PCSA or PCPA shall provide the relative or nonrelative caregiver with written notification of the decision to approve or not approve the placement within three business days of the date the final decision to approve or not approve the placement was made.

(D) The PCSA or PCPA shall complete the JFS 01447 "Assessment of Relative or Nonrelative Substitute Caregiver." The PCSA or PCPA shall use the SACWIS application to complete home assessments.

(E) The PCSA or PCPA may deny the placement if the relative or nonrelative had his or her parental rights involuntarily terminated.

(F) The PCSA or PCPA shall not approve the placement if the relative or nonrelative or other adults residing within the home have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any offense listed in appendix A to this rule unless the agency finds and documents that person's residency in the relative or nonrelative caregiver's household will not jeopardize in any way the health, safety or welfare of the children the agency serves. The following factors shall be considered in determining the person's approval as a relative or nonrelative caregiver or the person's residency in the relative or nonrelative caregiver's household:

(1) The person's age at the time of the offense.

(2) The nature and seriousness of the offense.

(3) The victim of the offense was any of the following:

(a) A person under the age of eighteen.

(b) A functionally impaired person as defined in section 2903.10 of the Revised Code.

(c) A person with an intellectual disability as defined in section 5123.01 of the Revised Code.

(d) A developmentally disabled person as defined in section 5123.01 of the Revised Code.

(e) A person with a mental illness as defined in section 5122.01 of the Revised Code.

(f) A person sixty years of age or older.

(4) The circumstances under which the offense was committed.

(5) The degree of participation of the person involved in the offense.

(6) The time elapsed since the person was fully discharged from imprisonment or probation.

(7) The likelihood that the circumstance leading to the offense will recur.

(8) The likelihood that the circumstance leading to the offense will recur.

(9) The person's employment record.

(10) The person's efforts at rehabilitation and the results of those efforts.

(11) Whether any criminal proceedings are pending against the person.

(12) Whether the person has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony contained in the Revised Code that is not listed in paragraph (H) of this rule, if the felony bears a direct and substantial relationship to being a relative or nonrelative caregiver or adult member of the caregiver's household.

(13) Any other factors the agency considers relevant.

(G) The PCSA, PCPA, and kinship caregiver or potential kinship caregiver are to refer to appendix A to this rule to determine the rehabilitative status of a crime.

(H) The PCSA or PCPA shall complete the requirements of paragraph (B) of this rule and make a decision to approve or not approve the child's placement with the relative or nonrelative caregiver within thirty calendar days from the date the assessment was initiated. If the BCI or FBI background check results and/or alleged perpetrator background check results have not been received by the PCSA or PCPA within thirty calendar days from the date the assessment was initiated, the PCSA or PCPA shall make a final decision to approve or not approve the placement of the child no later than five business days from the date the agency receives the BCI and FBI background check results and/or alleged perpetrator background check results.

(I) The PCSA or PCPA shall provide the relative or nonrelative caregiver with written notification of the decision to approve or not approve the placement within three business days of the date the final decision to approve or not approve the placement was made.

(J) If the PCSA or PCPA disapproves of a court ordered placement of a child, it shall notify the court in writing of its findings and recommend a suitable substitute care placement. The PCSA or PCPA shall continue to notify the court in writing of its findings and recommended substitute care placement at least every six months.

(K) The PCSA or PCPA shall maintain documentation, in the case record, of all assessments and findings required by this rule that are used in approving or disapproving the placement.

(L) Annually, based on the date of the original approval, the PCSA or PCPA shall complete a home assessment to assure that the placement continues to meet the requirements of this rule for approval of the placement.

(1) If there are multiple children placed by one agency in the home, the agency may complete one annual assessment based on the date of the original placement approval, but shall consider the appropriateness of each placement on a child specific basis.

(2) If there are any new adults in the home, the PCSA or PCPA shall conduct background checks on the new adult(s) pursuant to paragraph (B) of this rule.

(3) If the relative or nonrelative caregiver(s) has moved to a new address, the PCSA or PCPA shall ensure that the home meets the requirements listed in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(M) Once a child has been placed with a relative or nonrelative substitute caregiver and is not in need of a new placement, the PCSA or PCPA may continue to complete additional home assessments on other relative or nonrelative substitute caregivers. The PCSA or PCPA may extend the timeframe for completing these additional assessments by a maximum of thirty days past the requirements listed in paragraph (I) of this rule.

(N) Nothing in this rule removes the PCSA's responsibility for conducting parent assessments when a child reunifies with the parent from which the child was removed or when a child is being placed with a non-custodial or non-residential parent in accordance with rules 5101:2-37-01, 5101:2-37-02, and 5101:2-37-04 of the Administrative Code.

View Appendix

Last updated February 10, 2026 at 10:10 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 2151.86, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 9/28/1987 (Emer.), 11/3/2003, 6/1/2011

Rule 5180:2-42-19 | Requirements for the provision of independent living services to youth in custody.

• Effective: May 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Independent living services are to be provided to each youth in the custody of a public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) as developmentally appropriate, no later than the age of fourteen for normalcy and practical skills to prepare them for the transition from agency custody to self-sufficiency.

(B) The PCSA or PCPA is to provide and explain the JFS 01677 "Foster Youth Rights Handbook" pursuant to paragraph (A) of this rule and paragraph (Q) in rule 5101:2-42-90 of the Administrative Code.

(C) If a PCSA or PCPA is providing independent living services to an eligible unmarried minor female who is pregnant or has a child and is part of an "Ohio Works First" (OWF) assistance group, the PCSA or PCPA is to inform the local county department of job and family services (CDJFS) of the PCSA or PCPA's involvement with the family in order to ensure coordination of services.

(D) The PCSA or PCPA is to conduct a life skills assessment on each youth in agency custody no later than age fourteen. The assessment is to be completed no later than sixty days after the youth's fourteenth birthday or sixty days after the youth enters agency custody, if the youth is fourteen or older. A life skills assessment is to establish the need for independent living services identified in paragraph (E) of this rule. The life skills assessment is to be completed with documented input from the youth, the youth's caregiver, and the youth's caseworker.

(E) The PCSA or PCPA is to determine which independent living services are applicable, or not needed based on the assessment referenced in paragraph (D) of this rule and may include, but not be limited to the following:

(1) Academic support.

(2) Post secondary educational support.

(3) Career preparation.

(4) Employment programs or vocational training.

(5) Budget and financial management.

(6) Housing, education and home management training.

(7) Health education and risk prevention.

(8) Family support and healthy relationship and marriage education including education and information about safe and stable families, healthy marriages, spousal communication, parenting, responsible fatherhood, childcare skills, teen parenting and domestic and family violence prevention.

(9) Mentoring including being matched with a screened and trained adult for a one-on-one relationship that involves the two meeting on a regular basis. Mentoring can be short-term, but may also support the development of a long-term relationship.

(10) Supervision services for a youth placed in a supervised independent living arrangement including a youth who is living independently under a supervised arrangement paid for or provided by the county agency.

(11) Room and board financial assistance for rent, deposits, utilities, and other household start-up expenses in accordance with all of the following:

(a) The PCSA may only use up to thirty per cent of the Chafee federal independent living allocation for room and board pursuant to rule 5101:9-6-35 of the Administrative Code which may include, but is not limited, to assistance with rent and initial rental deposit pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 677, (2018).

(b) The PCSA is not to use the Chafee allocation or TANF independent living funds for room and board pursuant to rules 5101:9-6-35 and 5101:9-6-08.6 of the Administrative Code for youth under the age of eighteen and young adults that have reached their twenty-first birthday.

(12) Financial assistance including direct cash assistance, or other payments made or provided by the county agency to help the youth gain independence.

(F) To help the youth achieve self-sufficiency, the PCSA or PCPA is to develop an independent living plan in Ohio statewide automated child welfare information system (Ohio SACWIS) in accordance with all of the following:

(1) Complete within thirty days of the completion of the assessment outlined in paragraph (D) of this rule.

(2) Be based upon the assessment and the developmental age of the youth.

(3) Be youth driven and include input from the youth's caseworker, the resource caregiver, and two adult supporters as identified in rule 5101:2-38-05 of the Administrative Code.

(4) Document the strengths, limitations, and resources of the youth and outline the services to be provided.

(5) Update the plan with any changes of the youth's strengths, limitations, or goals.

(6) Provide a copy of the plan and any subsequent updated plans to the youth and resource caregiver within thirty days of the development or update.

(G) The PCSA or PCPA is to include in the independent living plan the contact information containing the names, addresses and phone numbers of significant others, such as current or former resource caregivers, two adult supporters, parents, friends, mentors, child's attorney, guardian ad litem (GAL) or court appointed special advocates (CASA) and extended family members as provided by the youth. The PCSA or PCPA is to use this information to work with the youth to develop and achieve meaningful, permanent connections with at least one caring adult.

(H) The PCSA or PCPA is to update the family case plan and submit it to the court within seven days following the completion of the initial independent living plan pursuant to rules 5101:2-38-05 and 5101:2-38-07 of the Administrative Code.

(I) The PCSA or PCPA is to complete a readiness review in Ohio SACWIS of the independent living plan with the youth and resource caregiver at least every one hundred eighty days until the agency's custody is terminated. Each review is to include:

(1) Progress on current independent living goals and the opportunity to add new independent living goals, as necessary.

(2) Review of youth's contacts including the development of meaningful, permanent connections.

(3) Details regarding youth's access to and participation in age or developmentally appropriate activities, positive youth development and experiential learning similar to non-custodial youth.

(J) The PCSA or PCPA is to provide independent living services training opportunities to caregivers caring for adolescents.

(K) For each youth in the custody of the PCSA or PCPA no later than the age of fourteen, the PCSA or PCPA is to request a credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies (CRA) each year until the youth is discharged from substitute care. This may be completed simultaneously or separately throughout the year.

(1) A request is to be submitted to at least one CRA by the first semi-annual review (SAR) held after the youth attains the age of fourteen.

(2) The PCSA or PCPA is to ensure each youth receives a copy and is provided interpretation of their consumer credit report annually until emancipation.

(3) The PCSA or PCPA is to assist youth in the resolution of any inaccuracies reported on any of the credit reports by working with the Ohio attorney general's office.

(L) A PCSA or PCPA is to ensure the following information is entered into Ohio SACWIS in accordance with rule 5101:2-33-70 of the Administrative Code:

(1) All services provided to youth as indicated in paragraph (E) of this rule.

(2) Youth characteristics including:

(a) Current and historical school information and education levels.

(b) Tribal membership.

(c) Delinquency adjudication.

(d) Special education.

(e) Current and historical medical conditions, medications and medical provider information.

(3) Basic demographics of the youth including:

(a) Gender.

(b) Race.

(c) Ethnicity.

(M) The PCSA or PCPA is to enter in Ohio SACWIS the date the independent living assessment and the independent living plan were completed. All readiness review dates of the independent living plan are to be entered in Ohio SACWIS, in accordance with rule 5101:2-33-70 of the Administrative Code.

(N) The PCSA or PCPA is to assist the youth in completing the national youth in transition database (NYTD) survey in accordance with 45 C.F.R. 1356.82 (a)(2)(2008). The PCSA may utilize independent living allocation to provide youth with incentives to complete the survey.

(O) At least one hundred eighty days prior to the youth's eighteenth birthday, the PCSA or PCPA is to provide the youth information on final transition planning and post emancipation services in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-19.2 of the Administrative Code and eligibility criteria to enroll in bridges in accordance with Chapter 5101:2-50 of the Administrative Code.

(1) The PCSA or PCPA is to document efforts in the readiness review to assist youth with meeting eligibility for bridges as outlined in rule 5101: 2-50-02 of the Administrative Code.

(2) At least ninety days prior to the youth's emancipation, if it is determined the youth is interested, the PCSA or PCPA is to:

(a) Refer the youth to the bridges program.

(b) Assign the bridges representative to the ongoing case within Ohio SACWIS.

(c) Introduce the youth to the bridges representative.

(d) Collaborate with the bridges representative until the youth reaches emancipation and custody has been terminated.

(3) At least fourteen days prior to the youth's emancipation, the PCSA or PCPA is to ensure the youth has all documentation required to enroll in the bridges program.

(P) If the youth is expected to remain in care after their eighteenth birthday, documentation is to be added to the readiness review at least ninety days prior to their eighteenth birthday to include information regarding the anticipated emancipation date. The PCSA or PCPA is to continue to document ongoing discussions regarding the final transition plan and emancipation date within the readiness review until the final transition plan, referenced in paragraph (Q) of this rule, is created.

(Q) At least ninety days prior to the youth's emancipation from the agency's custody, the PCSA or PCPA is to work with the youth to develop a final transition plan.

(1) The final transition plan is to be:

(a) Youth driven.

(b) Reviewed with the youth during monthly visits pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-65 of the Administrative Code until youth emancipates from agency's custody.

(c) Entered into Ohio SACWIS.

(d) Shared with the bridges representative for youth that have been referred to the bridges program.

(e) Provided to youth.

(2) The final transition plan is to address the following:

(a) The youth's option to receive young adult services identified in rule 5101:2-42-19.2 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Health care including:

(i) Information regarding Medicaid eligibility for former foster youth until the age of twenty-six. The PCSA or PCPA is to submit the ODM 01958 "Referral for Medicaid Continuing Eligibility Review" to the county in which the youth will reside upon emancipation. It is to be explained to the youth that medicaid is to be renewed annually in the county they reside.

(ii) Health care power of attorney.

(iii) Youth's option to execute power of attorney.

(iv) Establish ongoing services with medical and behavioral health providers where the youth will reside upon emancipation.

(c) Employment services.

(d) Secondary and post-secondary education and training.

(e) Obtaining and paying for safe and stable housing where the young adult will reside upon emancipation.

(f) Budgeting for necessary living expenses.

(g) Obtaining a credit report.

(h) Registering for selective service.

(i) Information on obtaining a driver's license.

(j) Information on any existing court fees associated with the youth's name prior to emancipation.

(k) Information on any existing benefits the youth receives, such as but not limited to social security benefits. If necessary, the PCSA or PCPA review with the youth instructions on how to apply for continuation of those benefits.

(R) Prior to the youth's emancipation from the agency's custody, the PCSA or PCPA is to secure and provide to the youth the following documents:

(1) An original birth certificate.

(2) An original social security card.

(3) A current state identification card or driver's license.

(S) The PCSA or PCPA is to provide a copy of the final transition plan to the youth when custody is terminated due to reaching the age of emancipation, along with the following:

(1) A copy of the youth's health and education records.

(2) A letter verifying that the youth emancipated from agency custody.

(T) The PCSA or PCPA is to document in Ohio SACWIS the date the agency provided the information in paragraphs (B), (F), (K), (O) and (Q) to (S) of this rule.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166, 5103.03, 5101.141
Amplifies: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 5/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 10/1/1997, 10/1/2009, 5/10/2014

Rule 5180:2-42-19.1 | Requirements for independent living arrangements for independent living youth in custody.

• Effective: December 30, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) may place a youth in its custody who is at least sixteen years of age in an independent living arrangement, when appropriate. For youth under the age of eighteen, the placement is to be a supervised or semi-supervised independent living setting. The PCPA making such arrangements is to be certified by the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) pursuant to rule 5101:2-5-03 of the Administrative Code.

(B) The PCSA or PCPA is to develop written criteria when considering the appropriateness of an independent living arrangement for the youth in its custody.

(C) The PCSA may utilize independent living funding, as outlined in rules 5101:9-6-35 and 5101:9-6-08.6 of the Administrative Code, to support services provided by the independent living arrangement. The services provided are to meet the requirements outlined in rule 5101:2-42-19 of the Administrative Code.

(D) The PCSA or PCPA is to assure that a youth's independent living arrangement meets the following standards:

(1) All associated structures are maintained in a safe state of repair and inspected annually by a certified fire inspector or the state fire marshal.

(2) The dwelling is safely and adequately heated, lighted and ventilated. Unvented kerosene heaters are not be used, unless the heater has been approved by "Underwriter's Laboratory (www.ul.com)."

(3) Firearms or other projectile weapons and ammunition are not on the premises.

(4) An operating telephone is accessible.

(5) The bathroom and toilet facilities are located within the building, connected to an indoor plumbing system and are operable.

(6) Garbage is disposed of on a regular basis and outside garbage is stored in covered containers or closed bags.

(7) Operable smoke alarms approved by "Underwriter's Laboratory" are on each level of occupancy.

(8) A portable chemical fire extinguisher is maintained in the cooking area and is operable.

(9) A written emergency procedure is in place that ensures the youth will have twenty-four hour access to staff familiar with his or her situation.

(10) No more than five youth reside in the home. Each youth is to be provided with a bed of his or her own with no more than two youth to a bedroom.

(E) The PCSA or PCPA is to follow procedures outlined in rule 5101:2-42-65 of the Administrative Code for visitation.

(F) Nothing in this rule is to preclude an agency from using additional site, safety, and supervision requirements for independent living arrangements.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166, 5103.03, 5101.141
Amplifies: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1991

Rule 5180:2-42-19.2 | Requirements for provision of independent living services to young adults who have emancipated.

• Effective: May 1, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Upon request, each public children services agency (PCSA) is to provide services and support to former foster care recipients, who have emancipated from PCSA custody on or after the age of eighteen from a substitute care placement, until their twenty-first birthday pursuant to 45 CFR 1355.20, (2012).

(B) A PCSA is to evaluate the strengths and needs with the young adult, assess the young adult's own efforts to achieve self-sufficiency and availability of community resources.

(C) Based on the evaluation required by paragraph (B) of this rule, the PCSA and the young adult is to develop a mutually agreed upon plan in Ohio statewide automated child welfare information system (Ohio SACWIS) for the provision of services. A copy of the young adult services plan is to be signed by the young adult and a representative of the agency.

(D) The PCSA is to include or update contact information in the plan in Ohio SACWIS on any of the young adult's connections with significant others, such as former resource families, friends, adult supporters, mentors and extended family members. The contact information is to include names, addresses and phone numbers, whenever known and is to to be documented in Ohio SACWIS.

(E) The PCSA is to make available the following independent living services to young adults aged eighteen to twenty-one including, but not limited to:

(1) Academic support.

(2) Post secondary educational support.

(3) Career preparation.

(4) Employment programs or vocational training.

(5) Budget and financial management.

(6) Housing, education and home management.

(7) Health education and risk prevention.

(8) Mentoring including being matched with a screened and trained adult for a one-on-one relationship involving the two meeting on a regular basis. Mentoring can be short-term, but may also support the development of a long-term relationship.

(9) Supervision services for a young adult living in a supervised independent living arrangement including a young adult living independently under a supervised arrangement that is paid for or provided by the county agency.

(10) Room and board financial assistance including room and board financial assistance that is a payment paid for or provided by the county agency for room and board, rent deposits, utilities, and other household start-up expenses.

(11) Education financial assistance such as a payment paid for or provided by the county agency for education or training, allowances to purchase textbooks, uniforms, computers, and other educational supplies; tuition assistance; scholarships; payment for educational preparation and support services, and payment for GED and other educational tests. The financial assistance also includes vouchers for tuition or vocational education or tuition waiver programs paid for or provided by the county agency.

(12) Other financial assistance including direct cash assistance for any other payments made or provided by the county agency to help the young adult gain independence.

(F) The PCSA may only use up to thirty per cent of the Chafee federal independent living allocation for room and board pursuant to rule 5101:9-6-35 of the Administrative Code. Bridges participants receiving Title IV-E maintenance are not eligible for the Chafee or temporary assistance to needy families (TANF) independent living (IL) room and board allocation. Room and board may include but is not limited to:

(1) Assistance with rent.

(2) Initial rent deposit.

(G) The PCSA is not permitted to use any independent living allocation for room and board for youth under the age of eighteen or past the young adult's twenty-first birthday.

(H) The PCSA is to report applicable independent living services provided to young adults as required in rule 5101:2-33-70 of the Administrative Code, according to Ohio SACWIS reporting requirements.

(I) The PCSA is to provide a copy of the agency's grievance policy as required by rule 5101:2-33-20 of the Administrative Code to each young adult requesting independent living services from the agency.

(J) The PCSA is to assist young adults age twenty-one years old and under in completing the national youth in transition database (NYTD) survey in accordance with 45 C.F.R. 1356.82(a)(2)(i)(2008). The PCSA may utilize independent living allocation to provide young adults with incentives to complete the survey.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5101.141, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5101.141, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 5/1/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 12/11/2017

Rule 5180:2-42-20 | Resource family bill of rights.

• Effective: November 15, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) No court or agency or any employee, volunteer, intern or subcontractor of a court or agency is to in any way violate any of the following rights of resource families:

(1) The right to be treated with dignity and respect as the resource family providing the day to day care for children in the children services system.

(2) The right to be free of discrimination including race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin (ancestry), military status (past, present or future), disability, age (forty years or older), genetic information, or sexual orientation.

(3) The right to receive training from either the recommending agency or the training designee and support from the recommending and custodial agencies to strengthen resource parenting skills and meet the needs of children in their care.

(4) The right to review the home study information that is not deemed confidential by the recommending agency.

(5) The right to receive clear expectations that relate to their role as a resource caregiver in partnership with the child in foster care, the child's family and with all other team members.

(6) The right to access a staff person representing the recommending or custodial agency inside and outside of normal business hours.

(7) The right to be informed of all known information about a child placed in their care pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-90 of the Administrative Code including information that may impact the health, safety, and well-being of any member of the resource family and community.

(8) The right to receive notification prior to court hearings and scheduled meetings concerning a child in their care and to be encouraged to share information during those opportunities.

(9) The right to receive training on the reasonable and prudent parent standard and, once trained, to act as the reasonable and prudent parent in making decisions for children placed in their care to participate in normal childhood activities that still maintain their health and safety.

(10) The right to actively work with the agency toward the permanency goal identified in the family case plan (e.g., reunification) and to support supplemental planning as established in rule 5101:2-38-05 of the Administrative Code, and participate in treatment planning (including independent living skills for children fourteen and older) for children in their care.

(11) The right to be informed of the processes available to submit grievances and/or complaints including with regards to these rights and to make their concerns known without fear of reprisal.

(12) The right to be informed of the process when a resource caregiver is investigated based on an allegation of maltreatment and points of contact, and what to anticipate as a person who is under investigation. The resource family has the right to be informed what supports and resources are available to them during the process and how the outcome may affect their relationship with the recommending and/or custodial agency.

(B) Any agency involved with a resource caregiver is to inform the resource caregiver of their rights and responsibilities pursuant to rules contained within Chapter 5101:2-7 of the Administrative Code in writing as well as all agency policies that impact the caregiver and any child in their care. Nothing in this rule supersedes the requirement for resource caregivers to follow agency policies.

(C) If the rights of a resource caregiver, as established by this rule, conflict with the rights of a youth in foster care, as established in rule 5101:2-5-35 of the Administrative Code, the rights of the youth will preempt the rights of the resource family or resource caregiver.

(D) The rights established by this rule will not create grounds for a civil action against the department, the recommending agency, or the custodial agency.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.163
Amplifies: 5103.163
Five Year Review Date: 11/15/2026

Rule 5180:2-42-60 | Placement services for infants of incarcerated mothers.

• Effective: September 15, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Public children services agencies (PCSA) are responsible for establishing policies and procedures for service coordination with correctional facilities and hospitals on behalf of infants born to women who are incarcerated.

(B) Upon notification by the correctional facility that postnatal services will be needed, the PCSA in the county in which the woman was a resident at the time of incarceration, or if not an Ohio resident, the PCSA in the county in which the woman was charged or sentenced shall:

(1) Conduct an assessment of the person or persons recommended by the incarcerated woman and provide a copy of the recommendation of approval or non-approval to the correctional facility.

(a) In the case of the child's father, the PCSA shall conduct a parent assessment in accordance with agency policy.

(b) In the case of a relative or non-relative caregiver, the PCSA shall conduct a home assessment in accordance with rule 5101:2-42-18 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Coordinate with the local children services agency in another state to request a home assessment, when the proposed relative or non-relative caregiver lives out-of-state.

(3) Obtain temporary custody of the infant by execution of the JFS 01645 "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" in accordance with rules 5101:2-42-06 and 5101:2-42-08 of the Administrative Code or by court order if:

(a) The infant is not remaining with the mother as part of a prison nursery program;

(b) The incarcerated woman has not recommended a caregiver; or

(c) The home assessment conducted pursuant to paragraph (B)(1) of this rule does not recommend approval of the caregiver.

(4) Assist the incarcerated mother, if the mother chooses a private child placing agency (PCPA) or Ohio attorney to participate in the planning for her infant by:

(a) Advising the incarcerated woman that any out-of-state placements through a PCPA or Ohio attorney shall be coordinated with the Ohio interstate compact on the placement of children (ICPC) office in accordance with Chapter 5101:2-52 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Contacting the PCPA or Ohio attorney to assure that a plan has been completed.

(C) When the PCSA of jurisdiction is not located in the county in which the infant is hospitalized, and due to circumstances beyond the PCSA's control, the PCSA is unable to obtain custody and care of an infant requiring immediate placement, the PCSA in the county in which the infant is hospitalized shall:

(1) Obtain temporary custody of the infant by execution of the JFS 01645 in accordance with rules 5101:2-42-06 and 5101:2-42-08 of the Administrative Code or by court order.

(2) Secure the infant's release from the hospital and place the infant in an appropriate substitute care setting.

(3) Advise the PCSA of jurisdiction, as identified in paragraph (B) of this rule, of the action taken and the child's ongoing need for care.

(D) Upon notification, the PCSA of jurisdiction shall arrange for care and custody of the child.

(E) The PCSA which holds custody of the infant is responsible for costs of medical care and services to the infant, commencing at the time of the infant's birth if other financial resources are insufficient or do not exist. If a local PCSA obtained temporary custody of the infant in accordance with paragraph (C) of this rule, the PCSA of jurisdiction shall reimburse the local PCSA for all its actual costs.

(F) The PCSA of jurisdiction and the local PCSA shall act in a timely manner in coordinating the transfer of custody and reimbursement costs.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.16
Amplifies: 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 9/15/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 1/2/1986

Rule 5180:2-42-65.1 | Exit interviews when a child in custody leaves an out of home placement.

• Effective: August 15, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The title IV-E agency or private child placing agency (PCPA) that holds custody of a child shall conduct a face to face exit interview with every child age five and older, as developmentally appropriate, within seven days after the child's exit from each foster care placement.

(1) The information gathered during the interview shall be dependent on the age and developmental level of the child. The interviewer's observations and any information to explain the child's responses shall be recorded on the JFS 01678 "Foster Care Exit Interview."

(2) If the child alleges abuse, neglect or any maltreatment during the exit interview, the interviewer shall make a report in accordance with section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

(B) The title IV-E agency shall complete the interview form in the Ohio statewide automated child welfare information system (SACWIS).

(C) The PCPA shall complete the JFS 01678 and place it in the child's case record and the caregiver's record. If the caregiver is not certified by the PCPA, the PCPA shall send a copy of the form to the recommending agency of the caregiver within seven days of the completed interview.

(D) Upon receipt of the form, the recommending agency shall discuss any concerns with the foster parent. If deemed necessary by the recommending agency, an action plan shall be developed within thirty days of the date the agency was notified of the concern. The plan may include but is not limited to providing more intense supervision, support, or training for the caregiver. If the concern warrants a rule violation investigation, then rule 5101:2-5-28 of the Administrative Code shall apply and may result in more formal enforcement, up to and including revocation of the foster home certificate.

(E) The title IV-E agency or PCPA is not required to complete the exit interview:

(1) When children in their custody are moved from residential care facilities or non-licensed providers.

(2) When a child was in the placement for less than seventy-two hours.

(3) When the child's placement type changes from foster care to adoption and the child remains in the same home.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.412, 2151.421, 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 2151.412, 2151.421, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 8/15/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 8/1/2018

Rule 5180:2-42-66.2 | Documentation of comprehensive health care for children in placement.

• Effective: July 15, 2024
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The custodial public children services agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA), and private noncustodial agency (PNA) is to document and maintain in the case record a record of physical health examinations, developmental and psychological assessments, and treatment for each child in the care or custody of a PCSA, PCPA, or PNA pursuant to rule 5101:2-5-10 of the Administrative Code.

(B) A record of a child's health information may be collected from a variety of sources, including but not limited to:

(1) The child's parent, caregiver, guardian, other relative(s) or other responsible adult familiar with the child's health history;

(2) The child, if age-appropriate;

(3) Medical providers;

(4) Mental health providers;

(5) Medical records;

(6) School personnel and records;

(7) County family and children first council;

(8) Early intervention coordinators;

(9) PCSA, PCPA, or PNA case records;

(10) Medicaid managed care plan; and

(11) Other social service agency personnel and records.

(C) A record of a child's health care is to contain, but not be limited to, the following, when applicable:

(1) A listing of a child's most recent and current medical, mental health, dental, and other health care providers including early and periodic screening and diagnostic treatment (EPSDT)/healthchek.

(2) A record of immunizations and dates of immunizations;

(3) A record of a child's illnesses, hospitalizations, surgeries, impairments, injuries and other significant medical problems and dates for each event;

(4) A record of physical health examination and treatment;

(5) A record of dental examinations and treatment;

(6) A record of vision examinations and treatment;

(7) A record of speech and hearing assessments and therapy/treatment;

(8) A record of developmental assessments and therapy/treatment;

(9) A record of mental health assessments and therapy/treatment;

(10) A record of drug screenings, assessments and therapy/treatment;

(11) A record of the child's sexual development history, including any family planning methods;

(12) A record of the child's physical, or sexual abuse history;

(13) A record of the child's prescription and nonprescription medications and any allergies to medications;

(14) A record of the child's food allergies and other allergies;

(15) The child's cultural background as it relates to nutrition, health care practices, and other relevant information;

(16) The health history of the biological parents and extended family; and

(17) Any other pertinent health information necessary to assure that those persons providing care for the child have adequate information to provide such care.

(D) The custodial PCSA, PCPA, or PNA is to keep the parents, guardian, or custodian informed of the physical health care, mental health care, and developmental care provided the child during the child's substitute care placement. Such information is to be shared at least every six months or at the time of each semiannual administrative review as required by rule 5101:2-38-08 of the Administrative Code. The parents, guardian or custodian is to be informed and consulted anytime a child in substitute care experiences a serious health, mental health problem or medical emergency.

(E) A substitute caregiver is to have access to all health care information to provide daily care for the child.

(F) The PCSA may use the child's health care record prepared pursuant to this rule as a source document in completing the JFS 01443 "Child's Education and Health Information" form or other comparable form as required in rule 5101:2-38-08 of the Administrative Code, if applicable.

(G) The PCSA may use a copy of the JFS 01443 form as a face sheet for the child's health record prepared pursuant to this rule.

(H) The custodial PCSA or PCPA is to provide a copy of a child's health care record to the child's parent, guardian, custodian, or prefinalized adoptive parent pursuant to this rule, and rule 5101:2-48-16 of the Administrative Code and to the child upon emancipation from custody pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-19 of the Administrative Code, as applicable.

(I) A PCSA is to maintain a record of a child's health care as a distinct part of the child's case record pursuant to rule 5101:2-33-23 of the Administrative Code, if applicable.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5153.166, 5103.03
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 9/28/1987 (Emer.), 1/1/1989

Rule 5180:2-42-87 | Termination of substitute care and custody of a child.

• Effective: June 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Each public children services agency (PCSA) shall determine the necessity for continuing or terminating custody of a child in a legally authorized placement for thirty days or more, whether the child's custody is by agreement or court order or whether the child's custody status is temporary or permanent. The agency shall assess the need for continued custody at least every three months from date of initial placement and at each semiannual administrative review by completing the following:

(1) The case review pursuant to rule 5101:2-38-09 of the Administrative Code.

(2) The "Reunification Assessment" pursuant to rule 5101:2-37-04 of the Administrative Code.

(3) Consider whether supportive services can provide adequate protection for the child if he or she were returned to his or her own home under a court order of protective supervision, or the agency's involvement is no longer deemed necessary and termination is sought.

(B) The PCSA's or private child placing agency's (PCPA) custody shall automatically terminate when one of the following occur:

(1) A court of jurisdiction issues an order terminating agency custody.

(2) The "Agreement for Temporary Custody of Child" expires or is terminated early.

(3) A probate court issues a final decree of adoption or an interlocutory order of adoption becomes final.

(C) While in substitute care, a child may be on leave from his or her current placement for a trial visit with his or her parent, guardian or custodian up to ninety consecutive days.

(D) When the PCSA or PCPA plans to recommend that the court terminate custody, the agency shall give the substitute caregiver and recommending agency at least five days advance notice. Advance notice shall not be required if a court of jurisdiction terminates agency custody on its own accord, or the substitute caregiver agrees to a lesser advance notice. Documentation of the notification (written or oral) to a caregiver shall be maintained in the child's case record.

(E) The agency shall provide the following services to prepare the child and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian when the child is to be returned home, which shall include, but not be limited to:

(1) Arranging visits or other contacts as needed between the parent, guardian, or custodian and child to discuss what has transpired between the time of initial placement and the present.

(2) Increasing the length and number of home visits to help the child become reacquainted with his or her family, when applicable.

(3) Providing emotional support for feelings the child may have about leaving the substitute caregiver.

(F) The custodial agency shall provide case planning services to emancipating youth pursuant to rules 5101:2-42-19 and 5101:2-38-05 of the Administrative Code and pursuant to rule 5101:2-38-07 of the Administrative Code, if applicable for the PCPA.

(G) When termination of substitute care occurs, those services offered to and provided to the child and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian in preparation for the child's reunification, adoption or emancipation shall be noted in the child's case record.

(H) The agency shall inform the county department of job and family services (CDJFS) healthchek coordinator when the child has been returned home and custody has been terminated.

(I) The agency shall provide the parent, guardian, custodian, prefinalized adoptive parent, or a child who is emancipating with a copy of the child's health care record prepared pursuant to rules 5101:2-42-66.2 and 5101:2-38-08 of the Administrative Code upon termination of the child's custody. The agency shall provide the parent, guardian, custodian, prefinalized adoptive parent, or a child who is emancipating with information about the healthchek program, if the child was in the healthchek program during the child's stay in substitute care.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.166
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 2/1/2003

Rule 5180:2-42-88 | Requirements when a child in substitute care disrupts or is missing from placement.

• Effective: August 3, 2023
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) When there is a disruption of a child's substitute care placement, the public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) shall address and document in the child and caregiver's case record the following information:

(1) Length of time the child was in the particular substitute care setting.

(2) Circumstances which led to the child's removal.

(3) Any efforts to maintain the placement, including supportive services offered to the child and caregiver.

(B) A disruption of a child's substitute care placement shall require an update to the family case plan pursuant to rule 5101:2-38-05 of the Administrative Code or rule 5101:2-38-07 of the Administrative Code.

(C) If a disruption of a child's substitute care placement occurs prior to the child's dispositional hearing, the PCSA or PCPA shall follow procedural requirements pursuant to rule 5101:2-42-93 of the Administrative Code.

(D) Upon receiving notification that a child is missing from a substitute care placement, the PCSA or PCPA shall immediately, and in no case later than twenty-four hours contact both:

(1) Law enforcement for entry into the national crime information center (NCIC) database.

(2) The national center for missing and exploited children (NCMEC).

(E) A report of the missing child is to be submitted to law enforcement and NCMEC and is to include the following, where reasonably possible:

(1) A photo of the missing or abducted child.

(2) The circumstances of the child's disappearance, including date and time child was last seen.

(3) A description of the child's physical features and personal identifiers,

(a) Age.

(b) Height.

(c) Weight.

(d) Sex.

(e) Race.

(f) Ethnicity.

(g) Complexion

(h) Hair color.

(i) Eye color.

(j) Birth marks, tattoos, piercings

(k) Clothing worn

(l) Glasses or contact use

(m) Nickname(s)

(n) Braces

(o) Shoe size

(p) Youth's cell phone number

(q) Youth's email address and social networking contacts

(r) Endangerment information such as:

(i) Pregnancy status.

(ii) Prescribed medications and any medical condition(s).

(iii) Suicidal or homicidal tendencies.

(iv) Description of who may have abducted the child and the vulnerability to being trafficked, sex or labor.

(v) Other health or risk factors, any factual, biographical or historical information, including health or behavioral health concerns that may assist with locating the missing child.

(F) The PCSA or PCPA is to maintain regular communication with law enforcement and NCMEC for updates on progress locating and aiding in the safe recovery of the missing child, including but not limited to:

(1) Possible location of the child.

(2) Who the child might be with.

(3) Additional risk of harm.

(4) Sharing information pertaining to the child's recovery and circumstances related to the recovery.

(G) The PCSA or PCPA shall document in the child's case record the following information:

(1) The date, time and name of the law enforcement agency contacted.

(2) The date and time NCMEC was contacted.

(3) The last known location of the child.

(4) The length of time the child has been missing.

(5) Anyone the missing child may have been with prior to or during.

(6) Efforts and resources used to locate the child.

(H) Upon the missing child's return, the PCSA or PCPA shall address and document in the child's case record the following information:

(1) The circumstances that contributed to the child running away or missing from care. When possible, these factors shall be considered when determining subsequent placements.

(2) The events or experiences that took place while the child was missing, including if the child is found to be a sex trafficking victim. The PCSA shall follow procedural requirements pursuant to rule 5101:2-36-12 of the Administrative Code. The PCPA shall report any allegations of abuse or neglect to the PCSA.

(I) The PCSA or PCPA shall send a copy, within fourteen days, of the documentation identified in this rule to the recommending agency of the caregiver, if the caregiver is not certified by the PCSA or PCPA. The recommending agency shall maintain the information in the caregiver's record.

Last updated February 9, 2026 at 3:57 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 8/3/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 9/28/1987 (Emer.), 12/27/1987