CASE, OHLER PROPOSE STRONGER FRAMEWORK FOR SOBER HOME OPERATIONS

HARTFORD – State Representatives Jay Case (R-63) and Brian Ohler (R-64) testified before the legislature’s Public Health Committee today in favor of their proposed House Bill 5761 AN ACT CONCERNING SOBER HOMES.

According to Case, there is a noticeable increase in the amount of ‘sober homes’ that have recently been opened in the Northwest Corner. However, these homes do not provide the protection necessary to foster a positive environment for all residents. Consequently, since January 1, 2017, 3 people have died in Torrington within the walls of a sober home as a result of an overdose.

“It’s important to monitor the operations of sober homes in order to ensure that the population living in such an environment is protected,” said Case. “Further, if non-profit providers have the ability to monitor some of the residents living in sober homes, then they will be able to shepherd the appropriate allocation of resources necessary to improve the rehabilitation process.”

“There is no existing registry for sober homes, this bill would help establish a more standardized framework and provide a layer of safety for those who are in transition from a treatment facility to a permanent residence,” stated Ohler. “Consequently, through simple regulation, a safer environment will be created.”

Ohler also went on to explain the implications for first responders that are dispatched to sober homes.

“As a safety professional by trade and EMT and firefighter, I have firsthand experiences as to the vast public safety dangers that overcrowding and over boarding poses on both tenants and first responders,” explained Ohler. “We must identify these homes to ensure all zoning codes are being followed.”

The Public Health Committee must re-consider the bill, since it has been heard, prior to moving it to the House Floor for debate. The committee has until March 29th to move the proposal forward.