OH HB289

Creates a presumption that continuation of a child's current foster placement is in the child's best interest if the placement has been stable for nine months, a change would be detrimental to the child's emotional well-being, and the foster caregiver has not requested a change.

Permits courts to approve placement changes only if it is in the child's best interest and the foster caregiver requests the change in writing, or if the court finds clear grounds to override the stability presumption.

Requires agencies to conduct diligent searches for adult relatives and nonrelatives with significant relationships to children upon removal from home, including database searches and interviews, and to provide notice of placement options.

Limits kinship preference by allowing courts to excuse consideration of relatives or nonrelatives for placement if they fail to demonstrate interest and willingness to assume custody within six months of receiving notice.

Expands foster caregiver and kinship caregiver participation rights in court hearings and requires agencies to inform them of adoption opportunities when children become available for adoption.