Subcommittee backs standards for recovery residences, requires national certification and oversight

The House Health Subcommittee voted unanimously to advance House Bill 1351, which requires organizations that certify recovery residences to adopt minimum standards and tasks the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services with selecting and approving organizations that meet those standards.

Chairlady Littleton, sponsor of the bill, said she had worked extensively with providers and local officials in drafting the measure. The amendment before the committee requires adoption of nationally recognized recovery residence certification standards and directs the department to approve organizations that meet those standards.

Supporters — including Representative Terry and other members who described long negotiations with stakeholders — said the bill strikes a balance between protecting neighbors and ensuring people in recovery have access to homes that provide services and oversight. Representative Hicks said he had seen successful recovery houses where residents formed supportive communities; he said, "they become family."

Representative Mitchell sought assurances about Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance and fairness in housing; the sponsor said the amended bill was intended to respect federal protections and work with the Department of Mental Health to avoid unintended consequences. Commissioner Williams (Department of Mental Health) told the committee the measure would "shine a light on just how big this number is across our state" and indicated the department would help ensure qualified treatment and oversight.

The clerk recorded 9 ayes, 0 nays. The bill now moves to the full House Health Committee for further consideration.