GA HB657

Establishes qualifications for recovery community organizations for substance use, requiring them to be nonprofits led by individuals in recovery, provide nonclinical peer support services, and employ certified peer specialists

Creates five certified peer specialist designations: Mental Health (CPS-MH), Addictive Disease (CPS-AD), Youth ages 18-30 (CPS-Y), Parent/Guardian (CPS-P), and ancillary credentials like Whole Health and Wellness Coach or Forensic Peer Mentors

Requires peer specialists working in department services to be certified by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, which holds sole authority to certify individuals completing approved training programs

Mandates recovery community organizations support all pathways to recovery, including medication-assisted treatment and harm reduction services

Authorizes the department, subject to appropriations, to designate one state-wide recovery community organization to coordinate the network and recognize local recovery community organizations