Some of the recommendations include:

• The Department of Youth Services should engage in a “system transformation” with respect to the design and size of its correctional institutions by replacing its current three large facilities with numerous smaller facilities.
• In addition to the 11 existing CCFs in Ohio, DYS should establish CCFs in the three counties that commit the highest number of youths to DYS, specifically Cuyahoga, Franklin, and Hamilton counties.
• The state should hire outside consultants to review operations in the three DYS facilities and a sampling of local juvenile detention centers and community correctional facilities.
• Relevant state agencies should develop a coordinated master plan to enhance efficiency and enable better outcomes for youth.
• Change Ohio law to better ensure accountability for youth who assault correctional staff.
• Increase the minimum age of youth commitments from 10 years old to 14 years old.
• Give judges more discretion in sentencing youth adjudicated on certain crimes.
• Prohibit youth adjudicated on nonviolent, low-level felonies from being remanded to a DYS facility.

Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the importance of the recommendations for reforming the juvenile justice system, stating that every child, including those in juvenile facilities, deserves the chance to reach their full potential. He stressed the need to provide these youths with the best possible opportunity for success upon their return to the community.