NJ looks to reform addiction and recovery systems, but is it for the better?

NJ looks to reform addiction and recovery systems, but is it for the better? / May 15, 2024 / NJ Spotlight

By Joanna Gagis

State lawmakers this week weighed in on a package of bills that would make major changes to addiction and recovery support systems in New Jersey.

The bills came in reaction to a recent State Commission of Investigation report — titled “The Dirty Business Behind Getting Clean” — that highlighted some predatory practices in the recovery field, including some who use illegal marketing schemes to profit off of patients.

Before the Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee, some of the measures drew criticism from advocates who work in the recovery field and said the new rules would create untenable requirements and unnecessary regulation, especially jeopardizing sober living houses and halfway homes. Another one of the bills would change the requirements for peer recovery specialists, including requirements that they have a GED or high school diploma.

“In the field, we have many folks who would be pushed out of the field or not be allowed into the field if that part of the regulation remains in place,” said Michael Santillo, CEO of the John Brooks Recovery Center and a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor.

The committee members agreed to continue revising the bills as they advance.

“I was frustrated to see it released; however, I was thrilled at the committee’s response, and I do think that if it has to exist, we’ll be able to revise it significantly,” said Elizabeth Burke Beaty, co-director of The Not One More Campaign and a certified peer recovery specialist.