Do I need a license to open a sober living home in Montana?
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Montana doesn't license recovery residences, but every recovery residence must register with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) under Montana Code Annotated 53-24-311, in effect since October 1, 2023. Certification is optional. State and local building, occupancy and zoning rules also apply.
What rules does Montana's recovery residence law set?
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Montana Code Annotated 53-24-311 requires written policies on administrative oversight, quality standards (including any limits on narcotic medication), residents, emergencies such as fire, disaster and overdose, and evictions, including the return of belongings. Opioid overdose medication must be on site with staff and residents trained, and a home may not set an arbitrary fixed length of stay unless transition dates are agreed at admission.
Is certification required for a recovery residence in Montana?
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No. Registration with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is required, but certification is optional. DPHHS recognizes Recovery Access Montana (RAM), the state affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), and the National Sober Living Association (NSLA).
What happens if a Montana recovery residence doesn't follow the law?
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Knowing violations of Montana Code Annotated 53-24-311 are prosecuted under the Montana Consumer Protection Act.
Can a Montana town use zoning to keep a recovery residence out?
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The federal Fair Housing Act bars local governments from using zoning or land use rules to exclude group homes for people with disabilities, including people in recovery, but homes still follow neutral state and municipal building, occupancy and zoning rules. Complaints can go to the Montana Human Rights Bureau or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
How do I list my recovery residence in this guide for free?
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Request a free listing. You choose what it shows, such as who the home serves and its registration or certification. The street address is shown only if you want it to be. Listing never requires ARKHE software.
How do I find a recovery residence or sober living home in Montana?
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The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) publishes the Montana Recovery Residence Registry, which shows each registered residence's location and certifications. Recovery Access Montana (RAM) has a provider directory you can filter by certification status, and Oxford House's vacancy search shows open beds in Oxford Houses.
Can a recovery residence in Montana make me leave after a set number of days?
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Montana law says a recovery residence may not set an arbitrary fixed length of stay. A stay is based on the resident's needs and progress, unless transition dates are agreed at admission. Homes must also have written eviction policies that cover the return of belongings.
Where can I get help in a crisis in Montana?
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Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, for free, confidential crisis support 24/7. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger. Montana 211 connects people with community resources any time of day.
How do I apply for Montana Medicaid?
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Apply online at HealthCare.gov, by phone at 1-800-318-2596, or in person at a community health center or Office of Public Assistance. To apply for food or cash assistance too, use apply.mt.gov or call the Montana Public Assistance Helpline at 888-706-1535.
What should I ask a recovery residence before moving in?
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Ask whether the home is registered with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and whether it holds certification from Recovery Access Montana (RAM) or the National Sober Living Association (NSLA), what it costs and what that includes, its house rules and eviction policy, and whether medication for addiction treatment is allowed.