The bill amends various sections of the "Rooming and Boarding House Act of 1979" to enhance regulations surrounding rooming and boarding houses, particularly focusing on cooperative sober living residences. Key definitions are updated, including the addition of "cooperative sober living residence," which is defined as a boarding house for individuals recovering from addiction. The bill establishes requirements for these residences, such as the necessity for two certified operators to manage operations, the prohibition of alcohol and illicit drugs, and the encouragement of participation in recovery programs.

Additionally, the bill mandates that cooperative sober living residences notify the Department of Community Affairs of any incidents that jeopardize the health, safety, or welfare of residents or staff. It also requires annual inspections of licensed rooming and boarding houses, with unannounced inspections for cooperative sober living residences occurring at least twice a year. The bill appropriates $100,000 from the General Fund to support its implementation and outlines the process for licensing and penalties for non-compliance. The changes are set to take effect in stages, with some provisions beginning on the first day of the fourth month following enactment.

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