Manning's Crisis Care Facility Legislation Clears Ohio Senate

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) announces the passing of House Bill 265, joint sponsored by State Rep. Tom Patton. HB 265 strives to help the foster care crisis in Ohio. Oftentimes, our communities struggle to find foster families, and public children service agencies are forced to look outside of their own county. 

HB 265 will help Ohio ease the regulatory burden on Children Crisis Care Facilities (CCCFs) and Residential Care Centers (RICC), which provide temporary care to children ages 0-12 and focus on focus on improved care for newborn babies and mothers impacted by addiction. 

These facilities are proven to strengthen and preserve families while also supporting a child’s development and reducing foster care placements. Currently, there are three of these facilities in Ohio: Blessing House in Elyria Township, Brigid’s Path in Dayton, and Providence House in Cleveland. 

In testimony submitted to the Ohio Senate Health Committee, Sr. Mary Berigan, SND, Executive Director of Blessing House stated “House Bill 265 provides the necessary flexibility for a crisis care facility to develop according to the needs of the community it serves.” She went on to note that “each county in Ohio faces many similar issues but to different degrees of impact. The impact of House Bill 265 would support the growth of the distinct models of crisis care facilities.”

“I am pleased to see House Bill 265 pass the Ohio Senate, as it eases regulatory burdens on crisis care facilities,” said Manning. “Blessing House has served residents in crisis in Lorain County for over 15 years, and the care provided to each family is tailored to ensure they are receiving adequate supports.”

The bill awaits a concurrence vote by the Ohio House before heading to the Governor’s desk.