Bill strengthens inspections of recovery facilities
A certification process has been established for PA recovery housing
By Tom Waring
The Times
State Rep. Frank Farry is pleased with passage of legislation by the House of Representatives to establish a certification process for recovery housing in Pennsylvania.
The certification process was based on recommendations made by the Certification of Drug and Alcohol Recovery Houses Task Force, which was established by Farry in 2014.
Recovery-based housing facilities offer assistance to individuals with substance abuse problems. Currently, no regulations are in place in Pennsylvania to govern the operation of these facilities.
“Recovery housing is a very important part of the process to overcoming an addiction; therefore, we must ensure they are operated in a safe and appropriate manner to warrant the best possible outcomes for those seeking treatment and the surrounding communities,” Farry said.
The legislation, House Bill 119, would require the state Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs to determine guidelines for inspection of the facilities. Facilities that do not comply with the guidelines would not qualify to receive any federal or state funding. Certification would also be required before any referrals could be made to the housing by a health care provider.
“I would like to thank the task force for the great work its members did to ensure those in recovery have a safe and clean environment during their journey to re-enter society, as well as to make certain residents in the communities surrounding these facilities feel safe.”
The CDARH Task Force was formed to ensure appropriate safety and operational standards for Pennsylvania’s recovery houses, taking into consideration related issues such as the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, protection of consumers, legitimate community concerns, discriminatory practices, and recovery house owners and operators. It was made up of law enforcement officials, treatment providers, recovery housing operators, county and state drug and alcohol agencies, and advocacy and recovery-support groups.
House Bill 119, authored by Rep. Aaron Kaufer, a Luzerne County Republican, moves to the Senate for consideration.
“I would like to thank Rep. Farry and the task force for leading on this important issue,” Kaufer said. “As the heroin and opioid epidemic grows in Pennsylvania and across the nation, it’s imperative we have a reliable certification process in place to assist these individuals in a successful recovery.” ••
