The bill S.157 amends various sections of Vermont law to establish a framework for the certification of recovery residences, which are shared living environments designed to support individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Key definitions are updated, including the replacement of the term "substance abusers" with "individuals with substance use disorder" throughout the text. A new definition for "recovery residence" is introduced, emphasizing the provision of peer support and access to community resources. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Division of Substance Use Programs and includes provisions for the exit and transfer of residents from recovery residences, ensuring that specific criteria and procedures are followed.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Health to develop a voluntary recovery residence certification program by September 1, 2027, which will require compliance with established standards and data collection for certified residences. The rulemaking process must be completed by December 1, 2028, and if a fee is necessary to support the program, it must be proposed to the General Assembly. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes provisions for the repeal of certain sections related to recovery residence agreements by that date.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9-4452, 9-4452(b)
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 9-4452, 9-4452(b), 18-4802, 18-4806
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 18-4802, 18-4806, 9-4452, 9-4452(b)
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 9-4452, 9-4452(b), 18-4802, 18-4806
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-4802, 18-4806, 9-4452, 9-4452(b)