This bill establishes the Recovery Housing Assistance Program, which will be administered by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) in collaboration with the Department of Human Services. The program aims to assist individuals recovering from substance use disorders by providing stable, temporary transitional housing for up to 12 months, along with substance use specific support, workforce development services, and assistance in securing permanent housing upon completion of the program. Priority will be given to individuals recently discharged from inpatient treatment or those involved in the criminal justice system for substance use offenses.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Commissioner of Community Affairs to submit an annual report detailing the number of individuals served, housing stability rates, employment outcomes, and program expenditures to both the Governor and the Legislature. A fund is established to support the program, which includes operational support for recovery residences and sober living homes, rental assistance, and workforce development services, with an appropriation of $5 million from the General Fund to facilitate these efforts. The DCA, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, is also required to adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement the program effectively. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.