Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-The Department of Drugs and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) today announced that the licensing program for drug and alcohol recycling stations has been opened and accepting applications.
The Rehabilitation Center’s licensing program will help individuals with substance use disorders continue to recover by ensuring a network of safe drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers throughout the Commonwealth. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines a rehabilitation home as "a safe, healthy, family-like living environment without material, supporting individuals to recover from addiction."
"The Wolfe administration is committed to ensuring that Pennsylvanians are supported at all stages of the rehabilitation process," said DDAP Secretary Jen Smith. "If there are no restorative housing standards or protective measures, the number of substandard facilities that may be used by these vulnerable groups is unknown. These regulations are an important step in ensuring safe, supportive housing for Pennsylvanians recovering from substance abuse disorders."
Rehabilitation facility licensing regulations contain many provisions designed to protect residents in terms of health and safety, finances, and residents' rights, some of which include:
In 2017, Governor Wolf signed Senate Bill No. 446 as Bill No. 59, which gave DDAP the power and obligation to issue drug and alcohol recovery agencies recommended by state agencies or state funding agencies or receiving federal or state funding. license.
On October 21, 2021, the Independent Regulatory Review Committee (IRRC) unanimously passed DDAP's "Regulations on Permitting Standards for Drug and Alcohol Recycling." On December 11, 2021, these regulations were published in the Pennsylvania Gazette, allowing DDAP to begin the federal licensing process.
Rehabilitation centers can find more information about the application process on the DDAP website. Drug and alcohol recycling centers must be licensed to receive recommendations from state agencies or state funding agencies, or to obtain federal or state funding to provide rehabilitation services. In the next few months, the DDAP website will publish information on finding approved recycle bins and recycle bin inspection reports.
Individuals seeking treatment or substance abuse support for themselves or their loved ones can call the free PA Get Help Now helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) at any time. The free and confidential hotline provides services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is provided by well-trained professionals. For those seeking help who may be inconvenient to talk to the helpline operator, you can also use the live chat option online or via SMS 717-216-0905.
Media Contact: Stephany Dugan-ra-dapressoffice@pa.gov