The proposed bill aims to update current statutes governing transitional housing facilities in Arizona by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework. Key changes include the removal of the restriction of transitional housing facility licensure based on bed count and the requirement for the Department of Human Services (DHS) to conduct annual inspections to verify compliance with related statutes and DHS rules. The bill also reduces the cap on civil penalties for violations from $5,000 to $1,000 and increases the notification time for DHS regarding a resident's death or other incidents from eight hours to one business day. Additionally, it modifies the definition of "transitional housing facility" and makes technical and conforming changes to enhance clarity and consistency within the law. Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for transitional housing facilities, including the establishment of minimum standards for licensure overseen by DHS, which encompass policies for reentry support, maintaining a drug and alcohol-free environment, and ensuring medication management. It outlines the licensing process, specifies that licenses remain valid unless revoked or suspended, and imposes civil penalties for non-compliance. The bill also emphasizes transparency by mandating that DHS maintain and publicly post information about licensed facilities, thereby enhancing accountability and oversight in the transitional housing sector.

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