DeWine defends Ohio’s child-care safeguards amid fraud concerns

Governor Mike DeWine assured Ohio residents that the state's child-care system contains strong safeguards against fraud after concerns emerged from a high-profile Minnesota fraud case.

Republican lawmakers requested a review, citing the Minnesota scandal; DeWine responded that Ohio already enforces protections and will monitor claims to prevent similar abuses.

Ohio's funding model differs from other states because payments go to facilities based on actual attendance rather than enrollment figures, DeWine said.

Officials emphasize attendance-based funding reduces incentive for enrollment inflation and can limit fraud opportunities, although oversight and audits remain central to enforcement.

The administration's statements aim to reassure families and lawmakers while potentially informing any legislative or administrative actions prompted by national child-care fraud concerns.