Pizzulli Introduces Legislation to Set Standards for Recovery Housing in Ohio

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) today introduced legislation to address the rapid increase of recovery housing facilities throughout Ohio.

House Bill 227 will create a licensing system and set statewide standards for recovery housing facilities. The bill will also direct regulatory authority to local Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMH) Boards.

“Setting these enforceable standards at the local level is critical to ensuring individuals in recovery get the best care possible while simultaneously protecting our communities and neighborhoods,” said Pizzulli.  

Key provisions of the bill are as follows:

• Prohibits unlicensed recovery housing facilities from accepting taxpayer dollars. 
• Requires Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services (OMHAS) to create a registry to track licensed facilities. 
• Requires OMHAS, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM), to develop standards and procedures for Medicaid recipient data sharing with local ADAMH Boards.
• Updates current language to improve functionality of local ADAMH Boards.

House Bill 227 awaits a House committee assignment.