DE HB245

Establishes licensure requirements for recovery housing, defined as housing for individuals recovering from substance use disorders that provides a safe, substance-free environment with peer support and recovery services.

Grants the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health authority to license recovery housing, set licensing fees, establish rules for good neighbor conduct and resident safety, and review complaints from residents.

Prohibits unlicensed recovery housing from receiving state agency or court referrals, obtaining government funding, receiving referrals for state-funded treatment, or advertising as licensed by the Division; violations result in fines of at least $5,000.

Requires state agencies, courts, and state contractors to refer individuals only to licensed recovery housing when recommending such facilities as part of treatment, parole, or discharge conditions.

Directs the Division to collect data on licensed recovery housing including demographics, length of stay, and post-discharge outcomes for quality improvement purposes; Act takes effect upon final rules promulgation or January 1, 2022, whichever is earlier.