OH HB212

Amends section 5103.16 of the Revised Code to exempt legal custodians from certain adoptive placement requirements that apply to other persons seeking to adopt children.

Defines "legal custodian" as a person granted legal custody of a child by a court of competent jurisdiction, with legal custody defined per section 2151.011 of the Revised Code or substantially equivalent statute.

Extends the existing exemption that applied to stepparents, grandparents, and guardians to now also include legal custodians, allowing them to adopt without meeting the standard placement approval procedures.

Maintains all other requirements and provisions of section 5103.16 regarding child placement, surrender records, home studies, and probate court approval for other adoptive placements.