House Bill 1193 amends Florida Statutes to redefine and clarify regulations surrounding community residences and recovery communities. It introduces new definitions, such as "long term," "reasonable accommodation," "recovery community," and "transitional community residence," while expanding the definition of "resident" to include individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The bill emphasizes that community residences must be licensed or certified and outlines the responsibilities of sponsoring entities, including providing necessary care and notifying local officials of any licensing changes. It also establishes criteria for zoning regulations, allowing community residences to be treated as residential uses under local zoning codes, provided they meet specific conditions, such as maximum occupancy and spacing requirements.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for local governments to revoke siting approvals if a sponsoring entity's license is denied or revoked, and mandates that such entities cease operations within a specified timeframe. It emphasizes the need for coordination in relocating residents if a community residence ceases operations and preserves the legal nonconforming use status of existing residences. The legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for community living arrangements, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents while promoting integration and support for individuals with disabilities and those in recovery. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1193 Filed: 419.001, 400.464, 400.9972, 429.67, 1003.57