Governor DeWine Signs Executive Order to Streamline Recovery Housing Certification & Improve Oversight

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today signed Executive Order 2026-03D, which gives the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) the authority to create a statewide certification program for recovery housing operators, announced State Representative Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County). Today’s announcement reflects a statewide commitment to increase the capacity of substance use treatment across the state and reduce the stigma associated with seeking treatment. 

"Recovery housing provides hope, stability, and a pathway to long-term recovery for thousands of Ohioans," said Governor DeWine. "As Ohio continues to invest in behavioral health and recovery services, we have a responsibility to ensure these programs operate with the highest levels of accountability, transparency, and integrity. The state will strengthen oversight with these new emergency rules while supporting the Ohioans who are on their road to recovery."

“When someone reaches out their hand for help, we have a responsibility to make sure the hand reaching back isn’t there to exploit them,” said Representative Pizzulli. “I’d like to thank Governor DeWine and Director Moretti for listening and taking action. Today marks a new chapter for Southern Ohio.”

Recovery housing offers safe, substance-free living environments where individuals can build healthy routines, develop life skills, and receive peer support while continuing their recovery journey. 

Over the last four years, there has been significant growth in recovery houses operating across the state. In 2022, there were 356 recovery houses in operation, and today, there are more than 1,700. Additionally, there has been a growing number of recovery houses opening and operating without necessary certification and with unsafe, poor living conditions, particularly in southern Ohio. 

With the new rule, DBH will implement a centralized, state-administered certification program with higher-quality standards for certification. DBH will also have direct authority to receive complaints, investigate potential issues, and enforce compliance at these homes. 

"This transition is about building a stronger recovery housing system for the future," said DBH Director Tia Marcel Moretti. "Most recovery housing providers are dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to help Ohioans rebuild their lives. They deserve a fair, transparent, and consistent regulatory framework that recognizes quality, protects residents, and promotes public trust."

Under the new oversight structure, the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health will:

• Administer certification for recovery housing operators statewide.
• Establish and maintain higher, consistent statewide standards.
• Strengthen monitoring and compliance.
• Improve transparency and accountability.
• Enhance protections for residents while supporting long-term recovery outcomes.
   

The Department will work closely with recovery housing operators, local behavioral health partners, county Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADAMH) Boards, recovery advocates, and other stakeholders throughout implementation to ensure an orderly transition with minimal disruption to residents.

Pizzulli championed House Bill 58, legislation passed by the Ohio House with unanimous support to address Ohio’s unregulated recovery housing industry by closing loopholes and strengthening accountability. The executive order signed today includes several provisions from House Bill 58.

Additional guidance is available through the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health.

Watch the full press conference here.