This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a pilot program specifically for recovery residences in Cabell County, addressing their relationship with landlord-tenant law. It defines key terms such as "recovery residence," "residence agreement," and "resident," and outlines the conditions under which a recovery residence can immediately discharge a resident without the need for a petition for summary relief. The bill also establishes procedures for discharging residents, including the requirement for prorated refunds of fees paid for residency or services if a resident is removed before the end of their paid term. Additionally, it mandates that transportation be provided for residents who were brought from outside West Virginia and requires reporting of discharge information to the Department of Human Services.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that recovery residences must comply with existing landlord-tenant laws and provides for the award of reasonable attorney's fees in cases of noncompliance. It also specifies that the rights under the West Virginia Fair Housing Act remain unaffected by this legislation. The pilot program is set to expire on May 1, 2026, and the Department of Human Services is tasked with evaluating the program's effectiveness and reporting findings to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance by July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 37-6A-5, 55-3A-1, 37-6-5a