Bill > A4535

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for cooperative sober living residences, which are defined as boarding houses specifically serving individuals recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. The bill requires these residences to have two certified operators, with at least one present on-site during nighttime hours and one residing in the residence, who will help enforce rules and support residents' recovery. Operators must prohibit alcohol and illicit drugs within the residence and implement random drug testing. The residences are also required to encourage residents to attend self-help programs, participate in recovery-related activities like peer-led meetings, and seek off-site services to maintain sobriety. The bill mandates that cooperative sober living residences immediately notify the Department of Community Affairs about any events that could jeopardize residents' health or safety, such as serious injuries, deaths, disease outbreaks, or potential crimes. Additionally, the bill requires owners to submit a detailed written report within five working days of such incidents. The Department of Community Affairs will be responsible for licensing, inspecting these residences at least twice annually, and maintaining a public online list of licensed cooperative sober living residences. The bill also appropriates $100,000 to the Department of Community Affairs to implement these new regulations, with most provisions taking effect in the fourth month following enactment.