The bill amends section 5119.393 and enacts new sections (5119.398 to 5119.3915) of the Revised Code to establish a certificate of need program specifically for recovery housing residences in Ohio. It mandates annual inspections of these residences by the relevant board of alcohol, drug addiction, and mental health services, which must report findings to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The bill also sets forth a process for receiving and investigating complaints, allowing the department to contract with organizations for these functions. Key definitions related to the program, such as "applicant," "certificate of need," and "reviewable activity," are also included, along with specified activities that require a certificate of need.

Additionally, the bill introduces new criteria for reviewing and approving applications for certificates of need, including assessments of alternatives to proposed activities and the historical performance of applicants. It establishes a formula to determine each county's need for recovery housing and outlines specific timeframes for various processes. The bill creates the Recovery Housing Residence Fund, funded by application fees and penalties, to assist with inspection and investigation costs. Notably, it repeals the existing section 5119.393, streamlining the regulatory framework for recovery housing services in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5119.393