HB0449: Housing is Recovery Pilot Program Act

• Establishes a pilot program administered by the Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health, to provide bridge rental subsidies and supportive services to homeless individuals with serious mental illness or substance use disorders who are at high risk of institutionalization or overdose.

• Eligible individuals must be 21 years or older, Medicaid-enrolled, and meet specific criteria including three or more psychiatric hospitalizations, three or more correctional facility stays, or one or more drug overdoses within the past 12 months.

• Provides bridge rental subsidies covering rent up to Fair Market Rent (up to 120% in areas with limited affordable housing), with participants responsible for contributing 30% of their income toward rent; includes move-in expenses and engagement services at least twice monthly.

• Requires participants to sign a lease, apply for long-term housing assistance through Public Housing Authorities within 6 months, and accept engagement services; follows a Housing First model that does not require abstinence or treatment participation.

• Appropriation shall be divided equally between individuals at high risk of institutionalization and those at high risk of overdose; program evaluation required after 4 years with results submitted to General Assembly by end of fifth year.