This letter transmits 3 new rules governing the Bridges program and 6 new JFS forms. The rules will be effective 12/11/2017 and the JFS forms with be effective 12/11/2017. The following is a brief explanation of each rule and JFS form.

OAC rule 5101:2-50-02 entitled “Requirements for Bridges Eligibility” provides guidance to agencies and other interested stakeholders on the eligibility criteria a Bridges applicant must meet in order to enroll in the program. This rule also contains the steps on how a Bridges applicant may apply for Bridges as well as the denial process.

OAC rule 5101:2-50-03 entitled “Bridges Termination and Reentry” provides guidance to agencies and other interested stakeholders on the ways a Bridges participant could be terminated from Bridges. This rule also contains the termination and reentry process for Bridges.

OAC rule 5101:2-50-05 entitled “Bridges Appeal Process” provides guidance to agencies on the appeals process when Bridges applicants or participants choose to appeal a denial or termination decision from Bridges.

JFS 01617 “Bridges Voluntary Participation Agreement” provides responsibilities that the Bridges participant is responsible for as well as responsibilities of ODJFS. This form will also trigger entry into the Bridges program and Title IV-E eligibility.

JFS 01618 “Bridges Notice of Denial” form provides the Bridges applicant the reason for their denial into Bridges.

JFS 01619 “Bridges Notice of Ineligibility” form provides the Bridges participant notice that they have become ineligible. This notice will also give information on the program grace period and how the participant may regain eligibility.

JFS 01620 “Bridges Notice of Termination” form provides the Bridges participant the reason for their termination from Bridges.

JFS 01621 “Bridges Voluntary Withdrawal Request” form will serve as a form for the Bridges participant to complete and submit to ODJFS signifying their voluntary withdrawal from Bridges.

JFS 01622 “State Hearing Request” form provides the rights and instructions a program applicant or participant should follow in order to request an appeal of the denial or termination from Bridges by way of a state hearing.

INSTRUCTIONS:

The following chart depicts what materials should be deleted from the Family, Children and Adult Services Manual (FCASM) and what materials are to be inserted in the FCASM.