Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
HB0783, a bill allowing a local government to adopt ordinances that require a sober living homes to be located at least 1,000 feet from any K-12 school, preschool or daycare facility, passed the House 80-8 on Wednesday, April 16.
Sponsored by Rep. Greg Martin (R-Hamilton-District 26), the legislation would also allow for local governments to require operators of homes for individuals recovering from alcohol, drug, or other substance abuse to seek a clinical referral from a licensed healthcare provider before a placement in a recovery house is made. The referral would have to state that the placement in such a home is medically indicated for the individual.
Additionally, the program will only be piloted in Hamilton County, and any ordinance or resolution by a local governing body must also comply with the Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
On the House floor, Rep. Martin reiterated that the legislation, “will strengthen the accountability of sober living homes.”
Democrat Reps. G.A. Hardaway and Antonio Parkinson asked some non-controversial clarifying questions but there was no further debate or discussion on the bill. The final vote was 80-8 in favor with all eight “No” votes coming from Democrats.
Four Representatives marked themselves Present Not Voting, Republicans Jody Barrett and Mary Littleton and Democrats Caleb Hemmer and Justin Pearson.
Reps. Harold Love and Bob Freeman, both Democrats, and Republican Tim Hicks did not cast a vote.
The Senate companion, SB1381, unanimously passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee at the end of March and still awaits a date on the Senate floor.
Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
