SB298 Relative to the scope of review of state agency interpretations, prohibiting the use of scented products in public areas of state buildings, and establishing a committee to study the implementation and effectiveness of the mandatory statewide certification process and operational standards for recovery residences.
Relative to the scope of review of state agency interpretations, prohibiting the use of scented products in public areas of state buildings, and establishing a committee to study the implementation and effectiveness of the mandatory statewide certification process and operational standards for recovery residences.
Impact Score — How Does This Bill Affect You?
Overall Impact Score
Mixed
Scale: 1 (harmful) to 10 (beneficial)
Your Wallet
Standards could increase costs for some operators but protect residents from exploitative or substandard facilities.
Your Community
Better sober living standards support recovery outcomes and address neighborhood concerns about unregulated houses.
Your Freedom
Balances residents' right to quality recovery housing with operators' ability to run facilities.
Status
Sen. Pearl Moved Nonconcur with the House Amendment, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote; 05/21/2026; Senate Journal 13
Sponsor
Kevin Avard (R)
The Short Version
Would establish certification and operational standards for sober living houses. Addresses quality and safety concerns in recovery housing, which is critical given NH's ongoing substance use disorder crisis.
Who's Behind This Bill?
Who Benefits
- ▲ People in recovery from substance use disorders
- ▲ Neighborhoods with sober living houses
- ▲ Families of people in recovery
Who Pays the Price
- ▼ Sober living house operators who must meet new standards
- ▼ Operators of substandard facilities
Bill statuses as of October 7, 2026. Check LegiScan or NH General Court for the latest.
This bill was auto-scored using AI analysis of the bill text and legislative data. Scores may be refined as we review more bills.