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 rules have been subject to a review by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR). The rules will become effective on 2/1/2016.

Chapter 6000

5101:4-6-26 "Food assistance- group living arrangements."

This rule describes the eligibility of individuals living in a group living arrangement. Minor language changes were made for clarity and to update the name of the Food Assistance program to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Also, language in paragraph (C)(1) describing residential facilities "for the mentally ill" and (C)(5) were stricken because the Ohio Department of Mental Health is licensing all residential facilities. No other substantive changes were made.

5101:4-6-27 "Food assistance- shelters for battered women and their children."

This rule describes the eligibility of individuals who live in shelters for battered women and their children. The Office of Family Assistance amended this rule. In order to align with federal policy, the rule no longer limits eligibility to women living in a shelter for battered women; rather it applies to all persons. Thus, the term "persons" has replaced "women" when referencing shelters for battered persons. The title was changed from "Food assistance- shelters for battered women and their children" to "Food assistance- shelters for battered persons and their children." In addition, minor language changes were made for clarity.

5101:4-6-31 "Food assistance- sponsored aliens."

This rule describes the eligibility of sponsored aliens, when to count a sponsor's income and resources to determine eligibility, and the county agency's responsibilities. Minor language changes were made for clarity and to update the name of the Food Assistance program to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). However, no substantive changes were made.