The "Recovery Residence Accountability and Protection Act of 2025" seeks to implement mandatory certification for all recovery residences in Florida, establishing uniform standards for their management and operation. The bill requires that all owners or operators of recovery residences obtain certification from the Department of Children and Families by January 1, 2027, while allowing current residences to operate conditionally during the application process. It also mandates the approval of a credentialing entity with expertise in recovery housing, affiliated with the National Alliance for Recovery Residences. The legislation revises definitions related to recovery residences, ensuring that individuals cannot be denied admission based solely on their prescription for medication to treat substance use disorders, while allowing for individualized assessments regarding admissions.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws by removing the requirement for recovery residence administrators to be "certified," instead focusing on active management and compliance with certification standards. It mandates level 2 background screenings for all owners, directors, and chief financial officers of recovery residences, and establishes that certifications will automatically terminate one year after issuance if not renewed. The bill also introduces provisions for local governments to review and approve recovery residences, ensuring that local regulations do not further restrict residents' stays. Furthermore, it allows Level IV recovery residences to manage more residents under specific conditions and clarifies that certain residences will not be reclassified for fire safety or building code purposes based solely on their recovery residence status. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1165 Filed: 397.487, 633.208