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Recent Updates to FARR Policies & Procedures 

Helpful Information for FARR Certified Providers 

  • FARR Levels of Support

    Beginning July 1, 2024, the levels of support for certified recovery residences have been codified and can be found in Fla Stat 397.311(5). They are as follows:

    (a) A Level I certified recovery residence houses individuals in recovery who have completed treatment, with a minimum of 9 months of sobriety. A Level I certified recovery residence is democratically run by the members who reside in the home.

    (b) A Level II certified recovery residence encompasses the traditional perspectives of sober living homes. There is oversight from a house manager who has experience with living in recovery. Residents are expected to follow the rules outlined in a resident handbook provided by the certified recovery residence administrator. Residents must pay dues, if applicable, and work toward achieving realistic and defined milestones within a chosen recovery path.

    (c) A Level III certified recovery residence offers higher supervision by staff with formal training to ensure resident accountability. Such residences are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and offer residents peer-support services, which may include, but are not limited to, life skill mentoring, recovery planning, and meal preparation. Clinical services may not be performed at the residence. Such residences are most appropriate for persons who require a more structured environment during early recovery from addiction.

    (d) A Level IV certified recovery residence is a residence offered, referred to, or provided by a licensed service provider to its patients who are required to reside at the residence while receiving intensive outpatient and higher levels of outpatient care. Such residences are staffed 24 hours per day and combine outpatient licensable services with recovery residential living. Residents are required to follow a treatment plan and attend group and individual sessions, in addition to developing a recovery plan within the social model of living a sober lifestyle. No clinical services are provided at the residence, and all licensable services are provided offsite. 

     

    FARR staff will assist providers in determining their level of support. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact us at 561-299-0405 or info@farronline.org

  • FARR MAT Policy

    In accordance with Fla Stat § 397.487(13), beginning January 1, 2025, a certified recovery residence may not deny an individual access to housing solely on the basis that he or she has been prescribed federally approved medication that assists with treatment for substance use disorders by a licensed physician, a physician’s assistant, or an advanced practice registered nurse registered under s. 464.0123.

  • RCI QR Code

    Requirement to engage residents in planning and development of Recovery Capital.

    Per NARR Standard 3.G.21. certified providers are required to “Engage residents in recovery planning and development of recovery capital.” There are many great tools available for ongoing evaluation, and each provider is welcome to choose the tool that fits best.

     

    FARR provides the Recovery Capital Index (RCI) at no cost to all FARR-certified recovery residences. The primary goal of the RCI is to shift the organization from anecdotal evidence to data-supported demonstration of success, providing a multi-dimensional survey of a person’s social, environmental, and behavioral well-being.


    For more information on the RCI or to sign up, please scan the QR code, or use this LINK.

  • Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA)

    A Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA) in a Florida residence certified by the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) is responsible for overseeing/implementing a variety of tasks and duties to ensure the effective and safe operation of the recovery residence.

     

    These responsibilities typically include:

    1. Compliance with Standards: Ensuring the recovery residence complies with FARR standards and regulations, including maintaining a safe, clean, and supportive living environment.

    2. Resident Care and Support: Providing support to residents, which may include facilitating group meetings, offering guidance, and ensuring residents adhere to the residence's rules and guidelines.

    3. Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records for each resident, including admission documents, progress notes, and any incidents that occur.

    4. Staff Management: Overseeing and training staff members to ensure they are equipped to support residents effectively and uphold the standards of the recovery residence.

    5. Program Development: Developing and implementing programs and activities that support residents's recovery goals, such as life skills training, educational workshops, and recreational activities.

    6. Crisis Management: Handling emergencies and crises, including coordinating with medical professionals, law enforcement, and other relevant parties when necessary.

    7. Community Relations: Building and maintaining relationships with community resources, such as local treatment providers, healthcare professionals, and recovery support services, to enhance the support network available to residents.

    8. Ethical Conduct: Upholding ethical standards and confidentiality regarding residents's personal information and treatment progress.

    9. Continuous Improvement: Engaging in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in recovery residence management and addiction recovery support.

     

    The responsibility that your CRRA is complying with the above falls to you, as the FARR-certified provider, and helps to ensure that the recovery residence provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment conducive to residents's recovery and well-being.

     

    *Beginning January 1, 2025: all FARR-certified providers are required to list the name of their CRRA(s) and contact information on both their Certificate of Compliance and on their website.

     

    Date of Board Approval: Aug 22, 2024

  • FARR Gender Specific Housing Policy

    For Providers that accept both males and females, each gender shall be housed in separate dwelling units.

  • Policies and Procedures for Imposing Fines on Certified Providers

    Purpose
    The Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) is committed to ethical, transparent, and accountable governance in accordance with Fla. Stat. Sec. 397.487. This policy establishes the procedure for addressing grievances filed against board members, ensuring a fair, timely, and thorough review. It also outlines the appellate procedure to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) for further review if necessary. The General Counsel of FARR will lead the Grievance Committee to provide a neutral and informed perspective on all grievance matters.

    1. Policy Statement
    It is the policy of FARR to address grievances against board members in a manner that is objective, confidential, and respectful to all parties involved. This process is designed to uphold FARR’s mission and values while ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes.

    2. Scope
    This policy applies to grievances filed against a FARR board member.

    3. Grievance Submission Process
    1. Filing a Grievance:

    • Grievances against a board member must be submitted in writing to FARR’s General Counsel, who will serve as the head of the Grievance Committee.

    • The written grievance must detail the complaint, specify incidents or actionswith dates, and include any relevant documentation.

    2. Acknowledgment of Receipt:

    • FARR will acknowledge receipt of the grievance within five business days, informing the complainant of the anticipated timeline for the review process.


    4. Review and Investigation Process
    1. Initial Review by General Counsel:
    An initial review by the General Counsel will be conducted. The General Counsel may 1) dismiss the grievance or 2) form a Grievance Committee.
    2. Formation of a Grievance Committee:

    • The General Counsel will lead the Grievance Committee and appoint at least two additional members without conflicts of interest.

    3. Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest:

    • All members of the Grievance Committee are required to maintain confidentiality throughout the process. Any committee member with a conflict of interest must recuse themselves from the investigation.

    4. Investigation Procedures:

    • The Grievance Committee, under the leadership of the General Counsel, will conduct a thorough investigation, including reviewing documentation, interviewing relevant parties, and consulting with legal advisors if necessary.

    • The complainant and the board member in question will each have the opportunity to present their accounts and submit any additional documentation they believe to be relevant.

    5. Investigation Timeline:

    • The investigation will be completed within 30 days of receiving the grievance, with an extension granted only if necessary due to case complexity. If an extension is required, all parties will be informed of the revised timeline.


    5. Decision and Resolution
    1. Findings and Recommendations of the Committee:

    • The Grievance Committee will compile its findings and submit a recommendation to the full board. Possible outcomes include a formal warning, mandatory mediation, suspension, or removal of the board member if the grievance is substantiated.

    • The findings of the Grievance Committee will be discussed at a special meeting of the Board of Directors.

    • Approval of the Grievance Committee’s recommendation will require a three-quarters vote of the members present at the special meeting.

    2. Notification of Decision:

    • The final decision will be communicated in writing to both the complainant and the board member within five business days of concluding the investigation.


    6. External Appellate Procedures to DCF
    1. Right to Appeal to DCF:

    • Under Fla. Stat. Sec. 397.487, if either party remains unsatisfied with the outcome, they may appeal to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).

    • Appeals to DCF must be filed within 30 days following FARR's final decision.

    2. Procedure for Appeal to DCF:

    • The appeal should include a summary of the grievance, FARR’s investigation

    • documentation, the decision, and any supporting materials.

    • FARR will cooperate fully with any further investigation or review by DCF.


    7. Record Keeping

    All documents related to the grievance, investigation, resolutions, and appeals will be securely maintainedfor a minimum of five years.


    8. Policy Review
    This policy shall be reviewed annually by the Board to ensure compliance with Florida Statutes and alignment with FARR’s mission. Amendments will be communicated to all stakeholders.

     

    Approval and Adoption
    This policy was approved and adopted by the Florida Association of Recovery Residences Board of Directors on November 13, 2024.

  • Requirement to attend Quarterly Zoom meetings

    As of January 1, 2025, all FARR-certified providers are required to attend Quarterly Zoom meetings. Information will be provided in advance of each meeting. All owners, operators, house managers, CRRA’s, and other interested staff are encouraged to attend.

     

    VIEW THE FARR CALENDAR OF EVENTS

  • Requirement to maintain records

    The minimum time to maintain records for Program Levels I, II, and III is 5 years.
    The minimum time to maintain records for Program Level IV is 7 years.

  • 90-Day Renewal Policy

    FARR has made efforts to eliminate providers having to request extensions of their certificates. FARR will contact providers within 90 days prior to a certificate expiration to coordinate the renewal process and site visit. This ensures that FARR staff can invoice, schedule, assess, and request any corrective action well ahead of the certificate expiration dates. The result will be providers having a current, annual certificate.

  • 1. Purpose

    The purpose of this document is to establish policies and procedures for the imposition of fines on certified recovery residence providers by the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR). These procedures aim to ensure compliance with standards, promote best practices, and protect the well-being of residents.


    2. Authority

    FARR is authorized to impose fines on certified recovery residence providers in accordance with Florida Statutes § 397.487(2)(b)1 (and the FARR Certification Standards). This authority is intended to ensure adherence to established guidelines and promote the safety and welfare of residents.


    3. Scope

    This policy applies to all FARR-certified recovery residence providers in the state of Florida. The fines are applicable to violations of FARR standards, non-compliance with certification requirements, and any actions that jeopardize the safety and well-being of residents.
     

    4. Definitions

    • Provider: Any individual or entity operating a recovery residence that is certified by FARR.

    • Violation: Any breach of FARR Certification Standards, Florida Statutes, or other applicable regulations.

    • Fine: A monetary penalty imposed on a provider for a violation of the standards or regulations.
       

    5. Grounds for Imposing Fines

    Fines may be imposed for the following violations:

    • Failure to maintain compliance with FARR Certification Standards.

    • A certified provider that fails to notify FARR within fifteen (15) calendar days of opening additional properties.  

    • Violations of resident rights or safety protocols.

    • Falsification of documents or reports.

    • Failure to provide required documentation during an audit or inspection.

    • Non-compliance with corrective action plans.

    • Any other violations as determined by the FARR Compliance Committee.


    6. Determination of Fines

    • Severity of Violation: Fines will be determined by FARR’s Compliance Committee based on the severity of the violation, with consideration given to the potential harm to residents, the extent of non-compliance, and any prior violations.

    • Base Fine Amounts:

      • Minor Violations (minor infractions that do not pose an immediate threat to the safety, health, or rights of residents. These are typically administrative in nature or first-time occurrences that can be easily corrected.): Up to $500 per incident.

      • Moderate Violations (more serious infractions that have the potential to affect the safety, health, or well-being of residents but do not present an immediate danger. These violations often indicate a pattern of non-compliance or failure to meet key operational standards.): Up to $1,500 per incident.

      • Major Violations (serious breaches that directly threaten the safety, health, or rights of residents. These violations may involve gross negligence, abuse, fraud, or other actions that result in harm or have the potential to cause significant harm.): Up to $5,000 per incident.

     

    • Aggravating or Mitigating Factors: FARR may adjust fines based on factors such as the provider’s history of compliance, corrective actions taken, or the presence of intentional misconduct.


    7. Notice of Violation and Fine

    • Notice of Violation: FARR’s Compliance Committee will issue a written Notice of Violation to the provider, detailing the specific violations, the corresponding fine, and the timeframe for corrective action.

    • Opportunity to Respond: Providers will have fifteen (15) business days from the receipt of the Notice of Violation to respond in writing, either by accepting the fine and submitting payment or by contesting the violation.


    8. Payment of Fines

    • Due Date: Fines must be paid within thirty (30) days of the final determination, unless otherwise specified by FARR.

    • Payment Methods: Payments may be made via check, money order, or electronic payment methods as specified by FARR.

    • Failure to Pay: Failure to pay the fine within the specified timeframe may result in additional penalties, including suspension or revocation of FARR certification.


    9. Appeals Process

    • Right to Appeal: Providers have the right to appeal a fine within fifteen (15) business days of the final determination.

    • FARR Appeal Procedure: The appeal must be submitted in writing, outlining the grounds for the appeal and any supporting documentation.

    • Review Process: FARR will convene its Compliance Committee to assess the appeal and issue a decision within thirty (30) business days.

    • DCF Appeal Procedure: Upon receiving an adverse determination by the Compliance Committee, the certified recovery residence may request an administrative hearing with DCF pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57(1) within 30 days after completing the FARR appeals process.


    10. Use of Collected Fines

    All fines collected will be used to support FARR’s compliance and enforcement activities, including education and training initiatives for providers.


    11. Record Keeping

    FARR will maintain accurate records of all violations, fines imposed, payments received, and actions taken in relation to provider compliance. These records will be kept for a minimum of five years.


    12. Confidentiality

    All information related to violations and fines will be handled with strict confidentiality in accordance with FARR’s privacy policies and applicable laws.


    13. Review and Updates

    These policies and procedures may be reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect changes in laws, regulations, or best practices.

    ​

    Date of Board Approval: Jan 6, 2024

    Policies and Procedures for Imposing Fines on Certified Providers

  • 1. Purpose
    The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures for the imposition of late fees on outstanding invoices for services, dues, or fees owed to FARR. These procedures are designed to encourage timely payments and maintain financial integrity within the organization.

    2. Authority
    FARR is authorized to impose late fees on outstanding balances in accordance with Florida Statutes § 397.487(2)(b)1 and the FARR Certification Standards.

    3. Scope
    This policy applies to all recovery residence providers, vendors, and other entities that owe payments to FARR for services, certification fees, or other financial obligations. Late fees will be imposed on all invoices that remain unpaid after 30 days from the due date.

    4. Definitions

    • Invoice: A bill for services rendered or fees owed to FARR, which includes certification fees, administrative fees, and other charges.

    • Outstanding Invoice: Any invoice that has not been paid by the specified due date.

    • Late Fee: A penalty of 3% of the outstanding balance, imposed monthly after the invoice becomes overdue.


    5. Payment Terms

    • Invoice Due Date: Payment for certification fees or renewal fees is due within 5 days from the date the invoice is issued unless otherwise stated on the invoice.

    • Grace Period: A grace period of 30 days is provided from the invoice due date. If payment is not received within this period, late fees will begin to accrue.


    6. Imposition of Late Fees

    • Late Fee Percentage: A late fee of 3% of the outstanding invoice balance will be imposed beginning 31 days after the payment due date.

    • Accrual of Late Fees: Late fees will be applied monthly, at the rate of 3% of the unpaid balance, until full payment is received.

    Examples:

    • If an invoice of $1,000 is outstanding after 30 days, a late fee of $30 (3% of $1,000) will be added to the total amount due on the 31st day.

    • If the outstanding amount remains unpaid after another 30 days, an additional 3% late fee will be applied to the new balance, including the previous late fee (i.e., $1,030 x 3%).


    7. Notice of Late Payment and Fees

    • First Notice: A reminder notice will be sent 5 business days after the invoice due date, informing the provider of the outstanding balance and the approaching imposition of late fees.

    • Late Fee Notice: If payment is not received within the 30-day grace period, a Late Fee Notice will be sent to the provider, detailing the outstanding balance, the amount of the late fee, and the new total due.

    • Subsequent Notices: Additional notices will be sent on a monthly basis if the outstanding balance and accrued late fees are not paid.


    8. Payment Methods

    • Payments can be made via check, money order, credit card, or electronic payment methods as specified by FARR. Providers are encouraged to use electronic payments for faster processing.

    • All payments will be applied first to any outstanding late fees, and then to the principal amount of the unpaid invoice.


    9. Dispute Resolution

    • Disputed Invoices: If a provider disputes an invoice or the imposition of late fees, they must notify FARR in writing within 10 business days of receiving the Late Fee Notice. The notice must detail the grounds for disputing the charge.

    • Review Process: FARR’s Compliance Committee will review the dispute and issue a decision within 15 business days. During this time, no additional late fees will accrue on the disputed portion of the invoice.

    • DCF Appeal Procedure: Upon receiving an adverse determination by the Compliance Committee, the certified recovery residence may request an administrative hearing with DCF pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57(1) within 30 days after completing the FARR appeals process.


    10. Suspension of Certification for Non-Payment

    • Suspension Threshold: If the outstanding balance, including late fees, is not paid within 90 days from the original due date, FARR reserves the right to suspend the provider’s certification.

    • Notice of Suspension: A Notice of Suspension will be issued to the provider, detailing the outstanding balance, late fees, and terms for reinstating certification.

    • Reinstatement: Providers will be reinstated once the outstanding balance, including all late fees, is paid in full.


    11. Exceptions and Waivers

    • Hardship Cases: FARR may, at its discretion, waive or reduce late fees in cases of financial hardship or unforeseen circumstances, provided the provider submits a formal request with supporting documentation within 30 days of the first Late Fee Notice.

    • One-Time Waiver: Providers who have maintained a consistent record of timely payments may request a one-time waiver of late fees in the event of an isolated late payment, subject to FARR’s approval.


    12. Record Keeping
    FARR will maintain accurate records of all invoices, payments, and late fees imposed. These records will be retained for a minimum of five years and will be available for audit upon  equest.

    13. Review and Updates
    This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in financial practices or statutory requirements.

    ​

    Date of Board Approval: Jan 6, 2024

    Policies and Procedures for Imposing Fines on Certified Providers

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