The bill amends section 5180.42 of the Revised Code to require the Department of Children and Youth to establish reimbursement rates for the placement and care of children in foster care. It introduces new definitions, including "licensed provider," which refers to foster homes and residential facilities certified under specific sections of the Revised Code. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the department in developing, implementing, and administering a system for these rates, ensuring that payments for placement and care do not exceed the established rates. Additionally, it mandates that the department consult with relevant stakeholders, such as public children services agencies and licensed providers, to determine these rates and allows for adjustments every two years.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing language that previously allowed the department to issue requests for proposals to establish statewide rate cards for foster care. Instead, it emphasizes the development of a structured rate system while maintaining flexibility for extraordinary or specialized placements. The bill is declared an emergency measure, necessitating immediate implementation due to fiscal pressures faced by counties related to the rising costs of child placement and care.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5180.42