The Recovery Residence Accountability and Protection Act of 2025 aims to strengthen the regulation and certification of recovery residences in Florida by requiring all operators to obtain certification from the Department of Children and Families. Current recovery residences must apply for certification by January 1, 2027, and can continue to operate conditionally during the application process unless their certification is suspended or denied. The bill establishes criteria for management, including the necessity of a certified recovery residence administrator, and makes the certification program mandatory rather than voluntary. It also revises definitions to align with federal laws and allows for individualized assessments for admission eligibility.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to operational requirements, including compliance measures, staff management, and crisis management, while mandating level 2 background screenings for key personnel. It prohibits recovery residences from denying admission based solely on medication prescriptions for substance use disorders and requires local governments to adopt ordinances for recovery residence approval. The legislation outlines conditions for discharging residents and establishes penalties for non-compliance, including revocation of certification for false information or failure to meet standards. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1290 Filed: 397.487, 633.208