Bill > H2241

This bill establishes a new regulatory framework for recovery housing (also known as sober homes) in Massachusetts, with significant restrictions on their placement in certain communities. The bill defines an "impacted community" based on specific demographic and economic criteria, and prohibits recovery housing from being located in such areas. The Bureau of Substance Addiction Services will be responsible for issuing "determination of need" permits for recovery housing, which requires operators to submit detailed information including location, operator details, house rules, intake procedures, and relapse policies. Operators must ensure that recovery housing is at least 1,000 feet from other similar facilities and can only be located in non-impacted neighborhoods. The permits are non-transferable, can be revoked for non-compliance, and operators who are denied a permit or have their permit revoked are barred from reapplying for six months. The bill mandates that existing recovery housing operators must apply for a permit by June 30, 2024, and the Bureau must begin accepting applications within 120 days of the act's effective date. The legislation aims to create more structured oversight of recovery housing while preventing concentration of such facilities in specific communities.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2241