The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes governing transitional housing facilities in Arizona by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework. Key changes include the removal of the two-year expiration for licenses, allowing them to remain valid unless specific conditions, such as non-payment of fees, are met. The bill mandates that the Department of Health Services (DHS) conduct annual inspections to ensure compliance with new minimum standards for these facilities, which are designed to promote public health, safety, and successful reintegration of individuals transitioning from incarceration. Additionally, the definition of "transitional housing facility" would be modified, and existing sober living homes would be required to transition to the new licensing framework within 30 days of the effective date of DHS rules.

Furthermore, the bill reduces the maximum civil penalties for violations from $5,000 to $1,000 and extends the notification period for DHS regarding significant incidents, such as a resident's death, from eight hours to one business day. It clarifies that transitional housing facilities will be excluded from the definition of "sober living home" once the new rules are adopted. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the regulation and oversight of transitional housing facilities, ensuring they provide a safe environment and support for individuals reentering society.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-414, 36-2061, 30-654, 32-1308, 32-2805, 36-405, 36-765.05, 36-766.06, 36-851.01, 36-882, 36-897.01, 36-1903, 36-2063, 36-4204, 35-190, 36-4201
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-414, 36-2061, 30-654, 32-1308, 32-2805, 36-405, 36-765.05, 36-766.06, 36-851.01, 36-882, 36-897.01, 36-1903, 36-2063, 36-4204, 35-190, 36-4201
House Engrossed Version: 36-414, 36-2061, 30-654, 32-1308, 32-2805, 36-405, 36-765.05, 36-766.06, 36-851.01, 36-882, 36-897.01, 36-1903, 36-2063, 36-4204, 35-190, 36-4202, 36-4201
Chaptered Version: 36-414, 36-2061, 30-654, 32-1308, 32-2805, 36-405, 36-765.05, 36-766.06, 36-851.01, 36-882, 36-897.01, 36-1903, 36-2063, 36-4204, 35-190, 36-4202, 36-4201