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Bill

HB 209

Peer recovery specialists; VDH & DOC to develop guidelines for hiring.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Callsen and 2 co-sponsors

VDH and DOC must develop hiring guidelines for peer recovery specialists—people with substance abuse recovery experience—to support treatment and rehabilitation in Virginia's health and corrections systems.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 90 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 209

Legislative bill overview

HB 209 directs Virginia's Department of Health (VDH) and Department of Corrections (DOC) to jointly develop hiring guidelines and standards for peer recovery specialists—individuals with lived experience of substance use disorder who support others in recovery. The bill establishes a framework for integrating these specialists into Virginia's behavioral health and correctional systems.

Why is this important

Peer recovery specialists fill a critical gap in addiction treatment by providing relatable, lived-experience-based support that complements clinical services. This bill formalizes their role within state systems, potentially improving recovery outcomes, reducing recidivism in corrections, and creating employment pathways for people in recovery—while also establishing consistent credential and training standards across agencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Credential and licensing concerns: The bill doesn't specify whether peer specialists need formal credentials or licenses, raising questions about standardization, liability, and professional boundaries versus clinical staff roles
  • Budget and resource allocation: Implementation requires agency coordination and training infrastructure; the fiscal impact statement may reveal unanticipated costs or resource competition with other health priorities
  • Scope of practice boundaries: Unclear guidelines could create friction between peer specialists and licensed clinicians regarding which services they can provide and in what settings, particularly in DOC environments where custody and care intersect

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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