Arizona House bill by Rep. Carroll establishes licensure for transitional housing facilities

Passed bill authored by State Rep. Frank Carroll seeks to create a regulatory framework for transitional housing facilities in Arizona, aiming to support individuals transitioning from incarceration by promoting safe, drug-free environments and adherence to health and safety standards, according to the Arizona State Senate.

It passed both chambers as of June 27, clearing the House by a vote of 31-25 and the Senate by a vote of 18-11.

The bill, introduced as SB1537 on Feb. 3, during the first regular session of the 57th Legislature, was formally listed with the short title: ‘transitional housing; reentry programs; licensure’.

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill establishes a licensure framework for transitional housing facilities in Arizona aimed at aiding individuals transitioning from incarceration to independent living. It requires facilities to develop policies promoting reentry into society, maintain drug-free environments, and support residents on medication or medication-assisted treatment. The licensing process includes adherence to health and safety standards, local laws, and respect for residents’ rights. Licenses are valid for two years, and operating without one can incur severe penalties, including fines and felony charges. The bill mandates staff training and facility inspections to ensure compliance, with license revocation for repeated violations. Additionally, it outlines notification requirements for serious incidents and prohibits personal relationships between staff and residents.

In the House, 13 Democrats and 18 Republicans voted in favor while 14 Democrats and 11 Republicans opposed it.

Meanwhile, in the Senate, three Democrats and 15 Republicans voted in favor while 10 Democrats and one Republican voted against it.

Carroll introduced the bill in the Arizona Senate on Feb. 3 during the first regular session of the 57th Legislature.

Carroll graduated from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence in 1989 and again in 2009 from National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors.

Frank Carroll is currently serving in the Arizona State Senate, representing the state’s 28th Senate District. He replaced previous state senator Christine Marsh in 2022.

The bill was signed into law by Gov. Katie Hobbs on July 1.

In Arizona, the legislative process begins when a bill is introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate. It is then assigned to one or more committees for discussion and possible amendment. If approved by committee, the bill proceeds to floor debate and voting in both chambers. If both chambers pass the bill, it is sent to the governor, who may sign it into law, veto it, or allow it to become law without a signature. The Arizona Legislature convenes annually in regular session starting the second Monday in January. Lawmakers introduce hundreds of bills each session, though only a portion make it into law. You can learn more about the legislative process on the Arizona State Legislature website.