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Certification for recovery community organizations heads to Holcomb's desk

The Indiana Statehouse in early winter.
Brandon Smith
/
IPB News
HB 1205 would require RCOs to be certified through the state. Advocates said that certification could help these organizations qualify for additional funding opportunities.

Some Hoosiers in substance use recovery find support and resources in grassroots organizations called recovery community organizations, or RCOs.

Legislation headed Gov. Eric Holcomb would establish standards for RCOs that give the groups access to more funding opportunities.

The RCO model is used nationally by independent, non-profit groups. These organizations often provide peer-based recovery support services, harm reduction programs, and community outreach and education programs.

HB 1205 would require RCOs to be certified through the state. Advocates said that certification could help these organizations qualify for additional funding opportunities.

READ MORE: Certification could mean more funds for substance use recovery support by community organizations

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The bill also creates expanded reporting requirements for Community Mental Health Centers. These requirements include, among other things, the total number of visits and the most common substance use issues, and mental health diagnoses for both adults and children.

Abigail is our health reporter. Contact them at aruhman@wboi.org.

Abigail Ruhman covers statewide health issues. Previously, they were a reporter for KBIA, the public radio station in Columbia, Missouri. Ruhman graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism.