This bill amends the "Rooming and Boarding House Act of 1979" to enhance the regulation of cooperative sober living residences in New Jersey. Key provisions include the introduction of a new definition for "cooperative sober living residence," which is described as a boarding house specifically for individuals recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. The bill increases the maximum civil penalty for licensing violations from $5,000 to $25,000 and mandates that the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) maintain a publicly accessible list of licensed cooperative sober living residences, including their locations and contact information. Additionally, it requires two unannounced inspections of these residences each year to ensure compliance with established standards.

The bill also establishes specific reporting requirements for incidents that may jeopardize the health, safety, or welfare of residents or staff, necessitating immediate notification to the DCA and a detailed written report within five working days. Furthermore, the Commissioner of Community Affairs, in consultation with health and human services officials, is tasked with implementing regulations that require cooperative sober living residences to employ qualified staff, prohibit the use of alcohol and illicit drugs, conduct random testing for substance use, and provide counseling and group sessions focused on recovery. These measures aim to create a safer and more supportive environment for individuals in recovery.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55:13B-3, 55:13B-7, 55:13B-9