COLUMBUS, Ohio — State Representative Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) has been honored with the Legislator of the Year Award by the Public Children Services Association of Ohio (PCSAO), recognizing his leadership in strengthening Ohio’s child welfare system through policy and funding initiatives.
The award was presented during PCSAO’s 2025 annual conference earlier this month in Columbus. The organization commended Stewart for his work as Chair of the House Finance Committee and his role in advancing legislation and budget measures aimed at improving services for children and families across the state.
Stewart was specifically recognized for his efforts to amend provisions in House Bill 497, ensuring greater flexibility in educational requirements for caseworkers. The change is designed to help local agencies recruit and retain qualified staff and improve outcomes for vulnerable children and families.
As part of the most recent state budget, Stewart also championed significant funding increases for child welfare, securing an additional $55 million for children’s services — bringing the total to $265 million over the biennium — and $20 million to establish regional child wellness centers for abused and neglected children.
“It is an honor to receive this award,” Stewart said. “Taking care of Ohio’s most vulnerable children is not optional — it is a necessity — and it is an area I have been passionate about for my entire career.”
Before joining the Ohio House of Representatives, Stewart served as a Pickaway County Commissioner and currently maintains a private law practice in Circleville.
The Public Children Services Association of Ohio (PCSAO) is a membership organization representing county children services agencies across the state. It advocates for sound public policy, promotes program excellence, and works to ensure safe children, stable families, and supportive communities.
