State Rep. Cindy Abrams | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Cindy Abrams | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House Families and Aging Committee has initiated hearings on House Bill 676, which proposes the establishment of Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) centers in the state. The bill is co-sponsored by State Representatives Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and Rachel Baker (D-Cincinnati).
PPEC programs are designed as non-residential community-based early childhood education services aimed at children with complex medical needs. These centers will be equipped with a medical director, nurses for routine and emergency care, and classroom teachers who create lesson plans tailored to each child's requirements.
State Rep. Cindy Abrams stated during sponsor testimony, "House Bill 676 is a win-win for children with complex medical needs, their families, and our communities to ensure proper and accessible early childhood education for children with complex medical conditions."
According to the proposed legislation, access to PPEC programs will require a referral from a licensed physician. Eligible children must be either medically or technologically dependent but also medically stable before starting PPEC services.
The bill is currently under review by the House Families and Aging Committee.
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