HB23-1204 Summary

• Relocates recovery residence regulations from section 25-1.5-108.5 to section 27-80-129 and establishes comprehensive requirements for client discharge and transfer policies at certified recovery residences.

• Requires recovery residences to develop signed program agreements with clients outlining conduct requirements, drug screening policies, and a relapse plan that must be implemented before discharge for substance use.

• Permits discharge or transfer with 24 hours' notice only if the relapse plan has failed, either for client safety reasons or if the client returns to alcohol or nonprescribed/illicit drug use; allows immediate discharge if client possesses such substances in the residence.

• Mandates recovery residences provide discharged clients with written notice, treatment referrals, housing/food assistance referrals if applicable, and crisis hotline information, with follow-up attempts to designated emergency contacts using peer support professionals when possible.

• Establishes a fair grievance and appeal process administered by the certifying body with written documentation within one week of verbal grievance and decision within 72 hours, prohibiting discharge decisions based on age, gender, disability, race, or other protected characteristics.