HARRISBURG: Today, Senator Tracy Pennycuick (R-24th) announced she is introducing legislation to require all currently established drug and alcohol recovery residences in the Commonwealth to obtain licensure within three years.
Act 59 of 2017 gave the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) the ability to create a licensure program only for recovery residences that receive state or federal funding or referrals from state agencies. While the optional licensure program is effective for those required to be licensed, thousands of recovery residences are left without any credential, leaving room for bad actors to take advantage of people in their most vulnerable states seeking recovery. Additionally, without a clear understanding of where these facilities are operating, who they are serving, and how they are functioning, we risk leaving significant gaps in oversight and coordination within our public health system.
In the 24th Senatorial District, the Borough of Pottstown, for example, struggles with an unusually high number of homes for recovering addicts and alcoholics – more than all the rest of Montgomery County combined. Pennycuick’s legislation would ensure recovery homes are licensed and following guidelines established by the state.
“By requiring all recovery residences to be licensed, we can ensure greater transparency and accountability, and protect those individuals who are residing there”, said Pennycuick. “Further, it provides time to these recovery houses to meet Department standards required for licensure. By building a more accurate picture of substance abuse recovery residences across Pennsylvania, we can ensure that individuals are receiving care in a safe, high-quality environment.”
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388