Bill > S0610

This bill modifies Florida statutes to provide regulatory flexibility for two specific types of residential mental health support dwellings. First, it ensures that single-family or two-family homes used as certified recovery residences (with a congressional charter) will not be considered to have a change in occupancy under the Florida Building Code. Second, it creates a specific exemption for residences owned by tax-exempt charitable organizations supporting people with mental health issues, allowing such homes to maintain their original classification if they meet certain criteria: having two to four bedrooms, housing no more than six ambulatory adults with mental health challenges, and limiting bedroom occupancy to two adults per room. The bill also amends the Florida Fire Prevention Code to prevent these specific types of mental health support residences from being reclassified solely based on their use or conversion, effectively reducing potential administrative and financial barriers to establishing supportive housing environments. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving organizations time to prepare for the new regulations.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/610