New legislation authorizes Hamilton County to regulate sober living homes

Greg Martin Passing / Tennessee Government

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) —  A new bill passed by the Tennessee General Assembly gives Hamilton County and its municipalities the authority to more effectively regulate sober living homes.

House Bill 783, sponsored by State Rep. Greg Martin (R-Hixson), allows local governments to create ordinances governing the location and operation of these recovery residences.

The legislation stems from a community concern after a violent shooting took place outside a sober living home, which occurred as children were walking to school.

“This bill would begin a pilot program in Hamilton County to strengthen the accountability of sober living homes.”

-State Representative Greg Martin

Under the bill, any sober living home within 1,000 feet of a school, preschool, or daycare center must be certified by a nationally recognized recovery residence organization, as listed by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

The law also gives cities and counties the ability to enforce compliance with zoning regulations, health and safety standards, fire codes, and building requirements.

In addition, new residents must be referred by a licensed healthcare provider or court before entering these homes.

The legislation includes protections to ensure compliance with the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, safeguarding the rights of individuals in recovery.

Importantly, existing sober living homes near schools are not impacted by the new requirements.

House Bill 783 now awaits the governor’s signature to become law.