MASH Policy Minnesota Association of Sober Homes

This legislation limits state agencies and their vendors to referring to certified ADF housing. DPH awarded a contract to the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH) to be the certifying body, and the training and technical assistance vendor. Insurance companies often prefer referring clients to certified sober homes because these facilities are more likely to provide positive outcomes at lower costs compared to repeated inpatient treatments. In severe cases where non-compliance threatens public safety or resident welfare, Massachusetts law permits emergency actions such as injunctions or restraining orders to cease operations immediately. Maintaining compliance is critical to ensuring the safety and success of both the sober house and its residents. Certifying your sober house through MASH is a critical step toward offering a safe, structured, and recovery-focused home for individuals rebuilding their lives.

Massachusetts Sober House Certification and Compliance Guide

Transition (e.g. entry, phase movement and exit) rituals promote residents’ sense of belonging and confer progressive status and increasing opportunities within the recovery living environment and community. Job descriptions include staff responsibilities, eligibility, and knowledge, skills and abilities needed to deliver mash sober housing services. Ideally, eligibility to deliver services includes lived experience recovering from substance use disorders and the ability to reflect recovery principles.

Step 2: Attend MASH Sober Housing 101 Training

Sober houses in Massachusetts play a crucial role in supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorders. These facilities provide a structured, safe environment that fosters sobriety and personal growth. Ensuring these homes adhere to specific standards is essential, as compliance with regulations directly impacts the quality of care residents receive. The legal framework governing sober houses in Massachusetts is multifaceted, involving state and local regulations.

We’ll help you open a MASH certified sober house from start to finish.

On November 12, 2015, FHWA issued a memorandum indicating that all modifications to NCHRP 350-tested devices will require testing under MASH in order to receive a Federal-aid eligibility letter from FHWA. In addition, a Federal Register Notice was also issued regarding this action. This has provided a significant step toward the implementation of MASH. Community gatherings, recreational events and/or other social activities occur periodically.

• Chapter 165, Section 37 of the Acts of 2014 required the Department of Public Health (DPH) to establish a process for the voluntary certification of alcohol and drug free (ADF) housing.
• The Massachusetts NARR State affiliate plays an indispensable role in supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorders by ensuring access to high-quality sober living environments across the state.
• Providers can be confident that patients will receive continued support post-treatment.
• Documentation that residents are oriented to emergency procedures.19.d.
• In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Housing (MASH) is the designated affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), which sets national standards for recovery residences.

Massachusetts Sober Homes Law

This information needs to be in writing and signed by the applicant. A statement attesting to compliance with nondiscriminatory state and federal requirements. Policies and procedures that promote resident-driven length of stay. Prior to the initial acceptance of any funds, the operator must inform applicants of all fees and charges for which they will be, or could potentially be, responsible.

• Before MASH will certify your sober home, your property must pass a detailed on-site inspection.
• These evaluations ensure continued adherence to certification criteria.
• MASH updates and replaces NCHRP Report 350.

A policy and practice documenting that a resident is fully informed regarding refund policies prior to the individual entering into a binding agreement. Written permission from the property owner https://fishbonecapone.com/what-are-the-causes-of-alcoholism-alcohol-abuse/ of record (if the owner is other than the sober home operator) to operate a sober home on the property. Documentation that the owner/operator has current liability coverage and other insurance appropriate to the level of support. Today, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about opening your sober living home in Massachusetts. Certification through the Minnesota Association of Sober Homes (MASH) demonstrates your commitment to providing recovery-focused housing that meets the highest standards. 24.b Ongoing performance support and training are provided for staff.

MASH certification is crucial for operating a reputable and successful sober house in Massachusetts. It opens the door to state agency referrals, builds your credibility in the recovery community, and ensures you provide residents with a safe, supportive living environment. In Massachusetts, sober house certification is managed by the Massachusetts Alliance for Sober Sober living house Housing (MASH). As the state’s affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), MASH ensures that sober living homes meet strict standards for safety, support, and structure.

Legal Framework and Statutory Requirements

Financial aid for vocational training, such as obtaining certifications or tools for employment. Resident and staff orientations include how to greet and interact with neighbors and/or concerned parties. Residents are linked to mutual aid, recovery activities and recovery advocacy opportunities. (b) The bureau shall establish and provide for the administration of a voluntary training and accreditation program for operators of alcohol and drug free housing seeking certification under subsection (d). Chapter 165, Section 37 of the Acts of 2014 required the Department of Public Health (DPH) to establish a process for the voluntary certification of alcohol and drug free (ADF) housing.

Verification that kitchen and dining area(s) are large enough to accommodate all residents sharing meals together.15.d. Verification that entertainment or recreational areas and/or furnishings promoting social engagement are provided. Sober homes applying for annual recertification must remit payment of certification fees during the recertification process and prior to scheduling the home inspection. Insurance and liability are critical for sober house operators. While not mandated by state law, obtaining appropriate coverage mitigates risks. General liability insurance covers bodily injury or property damage claims, while professional liability insurance protects against claims of negligence or inadequate care.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 111, Section 127A, empowers the Department of Public Health to establish health and safety standards for residential facilities. This statute ensures sober houses maintain a habitable environment for residents. MASH-certified homes play an integral role in the continuum of care by offering a bridge between clinical treatment settings and independent living. These homes provide residents with peer support, structure, and accountability—key factors in preventing relapse and promoting sustained recovery. Minnesota is home to many recovery residences — and while many provide safe, ethical, and effective housing, not all do.

E. Core Principle: Provide a Home-like Environment

Established in 2007 by a group of sober home operators, MASH was founded to address the need for consistent standards and accountability within the sober housing community. Today, MASH oversees more than 180 certified sober homes. The organization’s core values emphasize health, home, purpose, and community, aligning closely with NARR’s principles to foster environments that promote long-term recovery and personal growth.

Certification with MASH not only validates the quality of a sober home but also makes homes eligible for state-funded referrals and builds trust with residents and families. If you’re planning to operate a sober house in Massachusetts, following the certification process is an essential step. Healthcare providers benefit from referring patients to MASH-certified homes because these facilities adhere to national standards that promote patient safety and well-being.