Bill > H0638

This bill establishes a voluntary certification program for "recovery residences," which are shared living spaces that help individuals recovering from substance use disorders by providing peer support and access to community resources. To be certified by the Department of Health, these residences must be accredited by an approved organization, demonstrate the ability to operate according to health and safety rules, and agree to inspections. They must also have a clear process for handling resident complaints, including resident awareness of the procedure, an internal appeals system, and reporting to the Department. Certified residences will need to renew their certification annually and will be required to report data on residents served, length of stay, and other relevant information to the Department, which will then compile an aggregated report for legislative committees. The bill also makes changes to existing law regarding resident agreements in recovery residences, clarifying grounds for immediate exit or transfer of a resident and ensuring that a resident's possessions are held for at least 60 days after permanent removal. The provisions related to recovery residence exit and transfer data reporting will be repealed on July 1, 2026, and the entire act will take effect on that date.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.638