Legislation aimed at expanding access to housing for individuals in outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs has advanced through the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. The bill, sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-30), seeks to provide stable and supportive environments for those in recovery.
Senator Singer emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating, “This legislation strengthens protections for patients and ensures that those seeking help can do so in a stable, supportive environment without compromising their independence or safety.” He added that it is crucial for individuals in recovery to have access to housing that supports their treatment journey while maintaining ethical standards across the system.
The proposed bill, S-2340, allows licensed outpatient programs to offer housing and transportation services under strict safeguards. These measures are designed to protect patient choice and prevent coercion. The bill mandates that treatment and housing must be offered under separate contracts, prohibiting any service from being conditional on another. Additionally, it bans any form of payment or kickback for patient referrals but permits programs to share general information about community resources, including housing assistance.
The need for this legislation arose following a 2024 State Commission of Investigation report that uncovered financial exploitation within the recovery housing sector. Senator Singer concluded by highlighting the bill’s focus on transparency and accountability: “By creating clear boundaries and strong patient protections, this legislation ensures that recovery support is delivered with full transparency and accountability.”
