In accordance with section 106.03 of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC), each state agency is required to review each of its rules in the Ohio Administrative Code a minimum of once every five years.  The intent of the review is to ensure that Administrative Code rules are clearly written and that program requirements are accurate, up-to-date and clearly expressed.  To the extent possible, unnecessary paperwork will be eliminated, local agencies will be given increased flexibility, and any adverse impact on businesses will be eliminated or reduced.  As a result of the review, the agency may amend the rule; rescind the rule; or continue the rule without amendment.

The Office of Family Assistance (OFA) has completed a review of the following rules and the rules have been subject to a review by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR).  The rules will become effective on 11/1/22.

Chapter 2000

5101:1-23-01 "Ohio Works First: Time-Limited Receipt of Assistance."

This rule describes the Ohio Works First (OWF) time limit restrictions, as well as the good cause and hardship criteria for continuation of the OWF beyond the time limit.  OFA has amended this rule. Changes to the rule include: 

• Removing form revision dates in paragraph (B)(4)(h) as a result of Senate Bill 221 of the 132nd General Assembly that amended incorporation by reference requirements contained in section 121.71 to 121.75 of the Ohio Revised Code:
• The effective date for 45 C.F.R. 260.31 in paragraphs (E)(2) and (E)(4) have been updated to align with federal rule; and
• Minor language changes were made to improve clarity.

5101:1-23-01.1 "Ohio Works First: Calculation of the Twenty Percent Limits for State and Federal Hardship Extensions."

The rule describes the twenty percent limitation on federal and state hardships, how the twenty percent is calculated, and exemptions from the limitation.  OFA has amended this rule.  Changes to the rule include:  

• Paragraph (A) was put into question-and-answer format to improve clarity.