Finding affordable housing is a struggle for many Granite Staters. For our neighbors in recovery from substance use disorder, it's an even steeper climb. Finding a safe place to live that will provide a stable living environment and support for residents as they navigate their recovery journey is often a major obstacle.
Senate Bill 298 would protect residents and communities by ensuring that all recovery houses meet established health and safety standards. This would strengthen New Hampshire’s recovery housing system.
Take Action
Sign On: Business/Org. Joint Letter of Support
Customizable Email Template To House ED&A Committee
Share Your Story
Have you, a loved one, or a client/patient been impacted by recovery housing?
Share your experience.
Please consider the following questions when telling your story:
- How has recovery housing (or the lack thereof) influenced your recovery?
- What aspects were most helpful?
- What parts could be improved?
-
Have you ever had concerns about the safety or quality of a recovery residence? What would it have meant to you to know a home met established standards?
Learn: View Feb. 4 Zoom Meeting Materials
Advocating for Safe & Effective Recovery Homes: A Conversation with New Futures
On February 4, 2026, we held a virtual meeting for advocates and stakeholders. Attendees heard about efforts in Concord to establish statewide certification standards for recovery housing to protect residents and support their recovery journeys. Click the button below to access materials from the meeting — discover ways to make your voice heard and learn more about Senate Bill 298!
Attend or Testify at a Public Hearing
Make your voice heard by attending or testifying at a public hearing! New Futures can help you prepare remarks, find the committee room, and offer moral support at the hearing.
The House Executive Departments and Administration Committee will hold a public hearing for Senate Bill 298 on Wednesday, March 25 at 1 Granite Place in Concord at 1:50PM in room 231. Learn more here about what to expect at Granite Place hearings.
Click on "Attend the Hearing" below to indicate your interest and we will reach out to offer assistance.
Advocates can see our webpage Speaking Up: A Guide for Preparing Effective Testimony for tips.
Need help? Contact Jake Berry (Senior Vice President) with questions.
About the Bill
The evidence shows that access to safe, high-quality recovery housing, also known as sober homes, is associated with positive outcomes including lower chances of reoccurrence and reduced rates of incarceration.
Many recovery homes in New Hampshire are well-run, safe, and follow evidence-based best practices. Some are even voluntarily certified according to standards developed based on the specific needs of Granite Staters.
However, certification of recovery homes is currently voluntary, meaning not all residents are guaranteed housing that meets consistent health and safety standards and is free from misconduct and abuse.
Senate Bill 298 would require all recovery housing to meet statewide certification standards, ensuring protection for residents so they have access to safe housing that supports their recovery journey. By creating consistent standards, this bill would strengthen the recovery housing system across our state.
Bill Status
Wednesday, April 8, 2026: The House Executive Departments and Administration Committee will hold a work session to discuss the bill further and consider whether or not to
recommend the bill to the entire House or propose amendments. The committee may also hold an executive session where they will vote on their recommendation.
March 25, 2026: SB 298 had a public hearing. We are incredibly grateful to the many dedicated advocates who came out to testify!
February 19, 2026: SB 298 crossed over to the House of Representatives and was assigned to the House Executive Departments and Administration Committee.
January 7, 2026: The Senate passed the bill by a voice vote.
2025: SB 298 was retained during the 2025 legislative session for continued work in the 2026 session.
You can learn more about how New Hampshire's legislative process works on our About the Legislature webpage, or take one of our advocacy trainings.
.png?resize=360x0)
