Committee hears sponsor testimony on bill to shorten ADAMH contract notice, require data plan and criminalize uncertified recovery housing

The Ohio House Children and Human Services Committee on a first hearing received sponsor testimony on Senate Bill 138, which would shorten contract‑notice requirements between local Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADAMH) boards and service providers, require a statewide data‑sharing and integration plan with the state behavioral health agency, and make operating or advertising uncertified recovery housing a first‑degree misdemeanor.

Senator Johnson, sponsor of the bill, told the committee the legislation is “the culmination of several years of work, research, and compromise” and that it focuses on three primary areas: contracting changes, a data‑sharing requirement with the state agency, and new enforcement for uncertified recovery housing. “The 120 day notice has been slashed in half to only needing at least 60 days notice if either party no longer wishes to enter into another contract,” he said, adding the bill would provide a six‑month runway after enactment for local boards and providers to adjust.

The bi…