Legislative History
In 2023, the Kentucky General Assembly passed House Bill 248, marking a pivotal moment in the regulation of recovery housing across the Commonwealth. This legislation formally defined “recovery residence” in Kentucky law and established a statewide certification requirement for most recovery residences. HB 248 authorized the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to designate certifying organizations, the Kentucky Alliance of Recovery Residences and Oxford House, Inc., to ensure alignment with nationally recognized standards, particularly the NARR Standard 3.0. By mandating certification, HB 248 sought to promote safe, ethical, and recovery-oriented housing environments for individuals with substance use disorders, while protecting residents from exploitative or noncompliant operators.
Building on this foundation, House Bill 462 was enacted in 2024 to strengthen local enforcement and clarify operational boundaries for recovery residences. HB 462 empowered municipal governments to enforce the state certification requirement. It also limited certified recovery residences from offering on-site clinical services, such as therapy or medical treatment. unless appropriately licensed, thereby preserving the integrity of the social model of recovery. Additionally, it prohibited operators from requiring residents to participate in treatment provided by affiliated clinical providers. Together, these legislative actions represent a deliberate effort by Kentucky to expand access to high-quality recovery housing while safeguarding both residents and communities through appropriate oversight and accountability.
Statutes
- KRS 222.500 – Definitions for KRS 222.500 to 222.510
- KRS 222.502 – Certification required for residences promoting recovery from substance use disorder – Exceptions
- KRS 222.504 – Powers and duties of cabinet — Legal actions — Fines — Compliance.
- KRS 222.506 – Requirements for recovery residences — Prohibition against providing medical and clinical services — Exceptions.
- KRS 222.508 – Entities required to refer individuals to certified or recognized recovery residences — Consideration of certified or recognized residences by courts — Eligibility for state and federal funding.
- KRS 222.510 – Local government’s authority to regulate use of property.