House Committee Begins Hearings on Legislation to Support Foster, Kinship Caregivers

COLUMBUS—The House Finance Committee today began hearings on House Bill 580, legislation to directly support foster and kinship caregivers throughout Ohio by alleviating the financial burden oftentimes associated with childcare, announced bill sponsor, State Rep. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth). Ray is sponsoring the bill alongside State Rep. Andrea White (R-Kettering).

Under the bill, foster and kinship caregivers may receive publicly funded childcare by facilities licensed by the Department of Children and Youth for the time they are at work or a program of education.

“Foster and kinship caregivers are critical partners in ensuring every Ohio child grows up in a safe and loving home,” said Ray during sponsor testimony. “This legislation will allow caregivers to focus on providing for their families while ensuring their children are taken care of.”

House Bill 580 awaits further consideration by the House Finance Committee.