Purpose - To establish a statewide mechanism to review and positively impact new and revised rules drafted by ODJFS, either as a result of new legislation, new federal regulations, or the ongoing process of rule review. We then provide strong statewide response at the following levels: during ODJFS drafting of rules, at the time of public comment for ODJFS, within the Joint Committee on Rule Review (JCARR) process, and potentially, 
to develop communication mechanisms to PCSAs on final rules.

Philosophy - Rules should be minimal, according to state and federal mandates. Regulation over and above the state and federal laws should be part of county flexibility, in keeping with maintaining opportunities for best practice and customized local and individual services, resources and community standards. PCSAO fully supports the Standards for Effective Practice, to guide CPS practice.

Methodology - The committee has a standardized format utilizing key review criteria. Typically, three individuals collaborate on a review of a rule(s), then provide their written review to the statewide committee via email, and we discuss the review at the monthly meeting, to seek statewide consensus on comments. PCSAO then sends the written reviews, along with summary comments, to ODJFS, and the 88 PCSAs.

Structure -

Membership - Chair (Dan Bradhurst, Pickaway CDJFS Executive Director); PCSAO staff person (Crystal Ward Allen, Associate Director); regular core statewide committee membership (identified by PCSA Executives); regular ODJFS membership (Mary McCullough, Office of Family and Children Services in ODJFS; others, depending on topic expertise); core membership to enlist and draw upon specific areas of expertise within the PCSAs, depending upon the rules subject matter.

Meeting Schedule - Monthly, based in Columbus, but participation is also encouraged through the pre-arranged use of the video-conferencing equipment across the state.

Communication plan - This committee works via email as much as possible, both within committee work, and to solicit input and provide status reports to the 88 PCSAs.

Agendas - Thus far, the committee has aggressively reviewed and generated response to OAC rules in process as a result of NCANDS compliance, HB 332 and HB 448, Child Fatality Review, and others as they arise.

Membership development - contact PCSAO (Crystal Allen - pcsaocrystal@sbcglobal.net)