To address the continuing threat of terrorism and to work with the federal Department of Homeland Security (created in 2002 following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001), homeland security in Ohio in 2003 operated under the authority of the governor; the lieutenant governor was designated as the state homeland security advisor.
The State Department of Education administers every phase of public school operations, including counseling and testing services, the federal school lunch program, and teacher education and certification. The department also oversees special schools for the blind and deaf. The department's chief administrator is the superintendent of public instruction.
Health and welfare services are provided by several departments. The Department of Health issues and enforces health and sanitary regulations. Violations of health rules are reviewed by a Public Health Council of seven members, including three physicians and a pharmacist. The Department of Mental Health administers mental health institutions; develops diagnostic, prevention, and rehabilitation programs; and trains mental health professionals. The Department of Human Services helps the poor through aid to families with dependent children, public assistance payments, food stamps, and Medicaid. The Bureau of Employment Services and the Bureau of Workers' Compensation administer labor benefit programs.
Public protection services include those of the State Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, both within the Department of Highway Safety; the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, which operates penal institutions; the Department of Youth Services, which administers juvenile correction centers; and the Environmental Protection Agency.