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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | February 6, 2017 10:59 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Tina M. Davis |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Municipal Standards for Recovery Residences |
| In the near future, I will reintroduce legislation designed to create municipal standards for recovery residences. As many of you know, local governments across the Commonwealth are deliberating how to address concerns relating to the quality, safety, and supervision of recovery residences without violating federal disability and fair housing laws. Fearing potential legal challenges, many municipalities are awaiting guidance from the General Assembly before implementing any changes to their code with regards to recovery housing. In addition to creating a much needed definition for a recovery residence, this legislation permits a municipality’s governing body to adopt ordinances establishing minimal standards for recovery residences. Such ordinances may include written notification to the municipality that specifies the name and address of the residence, contact information for the property owner, supervision of the residents and staff, property maintenance, noise abatement consistent with other applicable ordinances, as well as an operation plan that facilitates rehabilitation. I am confident that this legislation will provide local officials with the statutory authority to effectively monitor recovery houses and provide a safe environment for residents and the surrounding community. I ask that you please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB795