Public Opinion Sought On Sober Living Homes: How To Speak Up

Press release from the City of Mission Viejo:

March 6, 2024

Residents are encouraged to share their experiences and opinions regarding sober living homes as part of a legislative audit.

The City of Mission Viejo spearheaded an effort last year to address the growing challenges associated with the proliferation of sober living and recovery homes in neighborhoods. That work led to the formation of the California Sober Living and Recovery Task Force, which is co-chaired by Mission Viejo Council Member Wendy Bucknum.

More than 200 people representing 37 jurisdictions across the state have participated in one of the seven public meetings facilitated by the Task Force, as momentum and support continues to grow rapidly. In addition to advocating for legislative reform at the state level, the Task Force has supported numerous relevant initiatives to address this issue, provide residents with relief, and ensure people suffering from addiction receive proper care in an appropriate setting.

The Task Force is also supporting Assembly Member Diane Dixon’s Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) request of the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and its role in the licensing, regulation, and oversight of sober living homes. With the audit now underway, auditors are asking residents to share their experiences.

To play a vital role in the audit process, you can share your experience and opinion regarding sober living homes with JLAC auditors by filling out this form.

For more information, signup for updates on the Task Force website and attend an upcoming public meeting.

This press release was produced by the City of Mission Viejo. The views expressed here are the author’s own.