Rep. Pizzulli Holds Press Conference on Bill to Improve Ohio's Foster Care System

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) Wednesday held a press conference on House Bill 984. This newly introduced legislation, spearheaded by Pizzulli and State Representative Darnell Brewer (D-Cleveland), aims to improve Ohio’s foster care system by ensuring county children services agencies are financially stable and children in placement receive appropriate care. 

This bill will require the Department of Children and Youth (DCY) to establish standardized rates for the placement and care of children receiving reimbursable services from licensed providers. This will promote financial stability across the system and ensure children receive the care they need and deserve, regardless of the timing, number of children, or level of need.

“It is imperative that county children services agencies have the resources they need to make appropriate placements and ensure children receive the care and support they deserve,” said Pizzulli during the press conference. “It shouldn’t matter whether that child lives in Scioto County, Hamilton County, Vinton County, or Franklin County. A child’s safety should not depend on their ZIP code or the financial situation of the county.” 

DCY will work in collaboration with public children services agencies, licensed providers, and county commissioners to develop the rates.

“How do you put a price tag on removing a child from a physically, sexually, or emotionally abusive home?  How much is it worth to protect a child from being trafficked? Ultimately, what is the cost of saving a child’s life?  Frankly, it should be priceless – but it sure doesn’t feel that way in the current child welfare system,” said Tammy Moore Morton, Director of Scioto County Department of Job & Family Services.

“This is not a Scioto County only problem, we just happen to be the first domino that will fall to Fiscal Watch or Fiscal Emergency due to this single line item,” said Scottie Powell, Scioto County Commissioner. “Since 2020 the number of kids in custody across the state has dropped by 9%, but placement costs have increased by 68% in the same timeframe, from $231 million to $389 million statewide. This single expense will gut many counties of essential services if not immediately addressed."

House Bill 984 awaits a House committee assignment.

To watch the full press conference, click here.