The U.S. House of Representatives on June 12 approved a bipartisan bill co-authored by Rep. Mimi Walters (R-CA) that would address the nation’s growing problems associated with unlicensed and unregulated sober living homes, which provide treatments for drug addicts, including those hooked on opioids.
“The opioid crisis continues to devastate the lives of millions of Americans, affecting families and communities throughout the country,” Rep. Walters said. “Those who seek treatment for their addiction should have access to safe and reputable rehabilitation facilities. Sadly, throughout Southern California, particularly Orange County, this isn’t always the case.”
The bipartisan Ensuring Access to Quality Sober Living Act of 2018, H.R. 4684, would require the U.S. Department of Health and Human and Services (HHS) to establish best practices for sober living homes that guarantee patients receive high-quality care, she said.
“Neither California state law nor regulation governs sober living homes, meaning those who own or operate these facilities are not required to hold any type of degree or qualification in order to obtain a license,” said the congresswoman. “Often times, bad actors who choose to profit off addiction rather than treat their patients are the ones operating sober living homes.”
H.R. 4684 was introduced on Dec. 19, 2017 by U.S. Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA). Among the members joining Rep. Walters as original cosponsors were U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL). U.S. Reps. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Greg Walden (R-OR) signed on as cosponsors to H.R. 4684. On May 17, the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee approved H.R. 4684 by voice vote before sending it to the full House.
“As the opioid addiction grows, so too does the need for legitimate addiction treatment facilities,” Rep. Walters said on the House floor prior to the vote in support of the bill. She said Southern California has more than 1,100 licensed facilities, as well as countless unlicensed sober living homes, “many of which have engaged in activities that exploit patients and endanger communities.”
“The Access to Sober Living Act will help put an end to fraudulent behavior and unethical practices conducted by some sober living homes, while helping those struggling with addiction rebuild and reclaim their lives,” the congresswoman said.
H.R. 4684 advanced to the U.S. Senate on June 13 where it was referred to the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee for consideration.