The required date for screening for sex offenders in Ohio nursing homes, licensed residential care facilities and county homes (“Homes”) has now arrived. As of September 15, 2014, these Homes are required to screen for sex offenders including checking the online Ohio sex offender registry prior to admission. Also, if a registered sex offender is admitted, a care plan must be developed to protect other residents and provide a safe envrionment. The Homes must notify the residents and their sponsors of the sex offender’s admssion and provide a descrption of the safety plan. The Ohio Department is mandated by House Bill 483 to implement regulations regarding to these new requirements but as of this date the regulations have yet to be promgulated. Even without published regulations, Homes are required to comply with the new statute. Watch for updates on the sex offender screening requirements as the Ohio Department of Health issues regulations. The sex offender registry link is located at: http://icrimewatch.net/inden.php?AgencyID-55149
