Bill
AB 255
AB 255 funds supportive-recovery residences in California, protecting tenants from eviction due to relapse and improving housing stability for those facing homelessness and substance use issues.
AB 255, introduced by Assemblymember Haney on January 16, 2025, aims to establish the Supportive-Recovery Residence Program in California. The bill seeks to address the intertwined issues of homelessness and substance use disorders by providing funding for supportive-recovery residences that emphasize abstinence while adhering to a harm-reduction model. This initiative is part of California's broader strategy to prevent and end homelessness, particularly among individuals struggling with substance use.
Funding for Supportive-Recovery Residences: The bill authorizes state programs to fund supportive-recovery residences that focus on abstinence, provided that at least 90% of the program funds are allocated to housing or housing-based services using a harm-reduction approach.
Eligibility and Monitoring: Applicants for funding must meet specific criteria, and the state will conduct periodic monitoring of funded programs to ensure they achieve core outcomes, such as long-term housing stability and reduced rates of homelessness recurrence.
Eviction Protections: The bill prohibits eviction based solely on relapse, ensuring that individuals are not penalized for substance use while residing in supportive-recovery housing.
Transition Support: If a tenant is discharged from the program or chooses to leave, they must remain in the supportive-recovery residence until a new permanent housing option that adheres to harm-reduction principles is secured.
Health Support Services: Supportive housing must provide access to medications for behavioral and physical health conditions and include overdose prevention training and access to overdose reversal medication for both staff and residents.
Standards and Compliance: The Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is tasked with adopting standards from the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) as the minimum for supportive-recovery residences receiving public funds. The HCD will also verify compliance with Housing First principles for residences seeking certification.
Funding Mechanism: The bill establishes the Supportive-Recovery Residence Program Fund, which will collect fees (not exceeding $100 per unit) to support the program's administration.
The implementation of AB 255 is expected to significantly benefit individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness due to substance use disorders. By providing structured support and resources, the bill aims to improve housing stability and health outcomes for vulnerable populations in California.
In summary, AB 255 represents a comprehensive approach to tackling homelessness through supportive housing that integrates recovery principles, aiming to create a sustainable path for individuals seeking to overcome substance use challenges.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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