Lawmakers Consider Statewide Solution for Recovery Housing Challenges in GA
The Challenge of Recovery Housing in Georgia
Access to recovery residences, which offer safe and structured living environments for individuals in addiction recovery, remains a significant challenge in Georgia. These facilities play a crucial role in helping people rebuild their lives after struggling with substance use disorders. However, the availability of such homes is alarmingly low across the state.
According to the National Survey of Treatment and Addiction Recovery Residences, there are only 82 recovery homes statewide. This number translates to fewer than one recovery residence per 100,000 residents, placing Georgia at 48th in the nation for recovery housing availability. This lack of access highlights a critical gap in support for those seeking long-term recovery.
Zoning Restrictions Hinder Expansion
During a recent meeting of the Senate Study Committee on Recovery Residencies, advocates and operators highlighted the challenges posed by zoning restrictions. These restrictions make it difficult to expand recovery residences, especially in areas outside major cities. Local rules often vary widely, creating obstacles for organizations trying to establish new facilities.
Ian Neubauer, CEO of Second Chance Recovery Residences, a Georgia-based recovery housing organization, explained that inconsistent local regulations create major barriers. He noted that some counties and cities have placed caps on the number of individuals who can reside in a recovery home. For example, in Marietta, the limit is set at three people for a recovery residence, effectively restricting growth.
Neubauer also pointed out that some areas impose limits on the number of people allowed in a residential home and how close these homes can be to one another. These restrictions, he argues, make it nearly impossible to open recovery homes in many communities, despite federal housing laws. He and other advocates are urging lawmakers to consider implementing statewide zoning standards to ensure recovery residences can operate safely and fairly across all 159 counties.
Balancing Neighborhood Protection and Recovery Access
Sen. Randy Robertson, R-Cataula, the chair of the committee, emphasized that the issue extends beyond zoning. He stressed the importance of ensuring that individuals in recovery have access to safe, stable homes where they can rebuild their lives. At the same time, he acknowledged the need to protect neighborhoods while creating pathways back into society for those overcoming addiction.
“This problem is not going to go away unless we have facilities out there, residential recovery places where individuals can find an off-ramp back into society,” Robertson urged during the meeting.
Moving Forward with Policy Changes
The committee plans to hold one more meeting before drafting potential recommendations for the 2026 legislative session. Lawmakers hope to strike a balance between local control and the need for consistent access to recovery housing across the state. They have also engaged with individuals who have lived in recovery homes to better understand how housing access and local policies impact the journey toward long-term sobriety.
By addressing zoning issues and working toward standardized regulations, Georgia could significantly improve access to recovery residences. This effort would not only help individuals in recovery but also benefit communities by fostering safer, more supportive environments for all residents.
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