State Representative Justin Pizzulli delivered sponsor testimony in Columbus last week, advocating for his proposed legislation to regulate Ohio’s unregulated recovery housing industry. The bill, known as House Bill 58, aims to bring oversight and accountability to recovery homes, addressing concerns of fraud, neglect, and criminal activity.
The proposed legislation would grant the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services the authority to establish a certificate of need program, regulating the level of recovery housing in each region. Additionally, local Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) boards would have the power to inspect facilities, investigate complaints, and enforce penalties for non-compliance with state standards.
Pizzulli emphasized that the bill seeks to reform, not eliminate, recovery housing by implementing three key measures: establishing a certificate of need, empowering local oversight, and introducing a modest bed fee of 69 cents per day. By comparison, nursing homes in Ohio currently pay $13.50 per bed, per day.
“Made it loud and clear in Southern Ohio—we will no longer tolerate bad actors in recovery housing,” Pizzulli stated following his testimony. “This legislation will curb the oversaturation of recovery homes and empower local leaders to hold bad actors accountable.”
Pizzulli highlighted the concerns of his constituents, noting, “The people of my district—hardworking, faith-driven citizens—simply ask for fairness and safety. They want recovery housing that truly supports people in need, not one that serves as a front for fraud and criminal activity.”
He also pointed to the broader impact of the opioid crisis in Ohio, emphasizing the need for recovery housing to fulfill its intended purpose. “The opioid crisis has devastated Ohio, and recovery housing was meant to be a part of the solution. Instead, it has devolved into a Wild West where fraud, neglect, and even criminal activity run rampant,” Pizzulli said.
The bill’s introduction has sparked discussions across the state, particularly in communities like Adams County, which have been impacted by the unregulated industry. By creating a framework for oversight and accountability, the legislation seeks to protect vulnerable individuals while ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.
House Bill 58 will now proceed to committee hearings for further debate and consideration. If passed, it could bring significant changes to Ohio’s recovery housing landscape.
