(a) The CONNECTIONS system means the statewide automated child welfare information system implemented and administered by OCFS pursuant to section 446 of the Social Services Law. The CONNECTIONS system contains, but is not limited to, those data elements required by applicable State and Federal statutes and regulations, relating to the provision of child welfare services including foster care, adoption assistance, adoption services, preventive services, child protective services, and other family preservation and family support services.

(b) OCFS means the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, successor agency to the Department of Social Services and the Division for Youth, pursuant to chapter 436 of the Laws of 1997.

(c) A public or private agency means an authorized agency, as defined in paragraph (a) or (b) of subdivision 10 of section 371 of the Social Services Law; a not- for-profit corporation, as defined in paragraph 5 of subdivision (a) of section 102 of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law; or a public agency that receives prior approval from OCFS to provide foster care and/or child welfare services.