The bill amends section 5119.393 and enacts new sections (5119.398 to 5119.3915) of the Revised Code to create a certificate of need program specifically for recovery housing residences in Ohio. It mandates annual inspections of these residences by the board of alcohol, drug addiction, and mental health services, which must report findings to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services within ten days. The bill also establishes a complaint process for these residences, allowing the department to contract with organizations to assist in investigations. Key definitions related to the program, such as "applicant" and "certificate of need," are introduced, along with specified activities that require certification, including the establishment or renovation of recovery housing.

Additionally, the bill outlines new criteria and procedural rules for reviewing applications for certificates of need, including assessing alternatives to proposed activities and the historical compliance of applicants. It establishes a formula to determine each county's need for recovery housing and sets specific timeframes for application processes. A Recovery Housing Residence Fund is created to support inspection and investigation costs, funded by application fees and penalties. The bill also allows for appeals regarding certificate decisions and includes a process for adjudication hearings. Notably, the existing section 5119.393 is repealed, reflecting a significant update to the regulatory framework for recovery housing in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5119.393