Previous Policy

In accordance with rule 5101:1-3-03(B)(7) of the Ohio Administrative Code, a legal marriage is: ceremonial; one which meets the requirements of Chapter 3101 of the Ohio Revised Code; or common-law marriages prior to October 10, 1991, when they became prohibited in the state of Ohio.

New Policy

Consistent with the United States Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex spouses must be considered to be married for the purposes of determining eligibility for the following programs: Ohio Works First, Prevention, Retention and Contingency, Disability Financial Assistance, and Refugee Cash Assistance programs.

Implementation

Effective July 22, 2015, the guidance provided in this letter shall supersede any conflicting rule, policy guidance or training material issued by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). ODJFS will update prior policy guidance and/or training materials as necessary.