Bill to bring quality standards to recovery housing across Kentucky signed into law

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed a new law Friday to help Kentuckians access quality recovery housing.

House Bill 248, sponsored by Rep. Samara Heavrin, establishes statewide minimum standards for the operation of recovery residences in Kentucky. Residences will be required to obtain certification from a certifying organization and ensure residents participate in key support services like employment training and self-help meetings.

At the bill signing, Beshear noted that substance use disorder has torn countless families apart and taken many lives. However, he said, there is hope and many opportunities to lift people up.

The governor said Kentucky has increased the number of treatment beds across the state by almost 50% in recent years and legislation like House Bill 248 is crucial to ensure there are supportive environments that help people get the best outcomes and ensure recovery is more equitable and accessible.

Many speakers including Beshear, Rep. Heavrin, Addiction Recovery Care CEO Tim Robinson, and Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy Van Ingram noted the important partnerships happening with the business community and the work of the Kentucky Chamber on new laws as well as programs offered by the Kentucky Chamber Foundation to help those in recovery find employment.

The governor also signed House Bill 148 focused on substance abuse and mental health treatment services into law Friday.

The General Assembly returns to Frankfort next week for the final two days of the 2023 legislative session. Stay tuned to The Bottom Line for updates.