Most Texans who need and want community-based, recovery services cannot access them because of the lack of peer recovery organizations across the state, especially those who meet fidelity standards.

Defining Peer Recovery Organizations (PROs) in Texas Statute

 

Peer Recovery Organizations (PROs), as the foundation of peer services, play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the peer support model. By operating within a peer-led environment, PROs are uniquely positioned to foster the development and sustainability of peer recovery support services and the peer workforce. Peer support goes beyond the confines of clinical treatment, extending into individuals’ everyday lives to provide non-clinical, strengths-based assistance. This holistic approach not only builds capacity within the recovery ecosystem but also engages affected family members, enhances accountability, and reinforces recovery-oriented practices. Peer support plays a vital role in strengthening personal responsibility and community ties, addressing the broader social and emotional aspects of recovery. By empowering individuals to take charge of their journey, it fosters meaningful, lasting change while reducing reliance on costly government interventions.

 

HB 3550 (Moody)  /  HB 4221 (Rose)

As an inclusive term, a peer recovery organization (PRO) is defined as:

➔   A nonprofit organization;

➔   Governed and operated by members of the local community; 51% which identify as persons in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) or a mental health (MH) condition;

➔   Mobilizes resources inside and outside of a local community to increase the prevalence and quality of long-term recovery for individuals with mental health or substance use challenges and their affected family members;

➔   Provides peer support within their communities.

 

·      Fiscal Responsibility and Cost Savings

o   Defining PROs clearly, ensures public funds go to peer-governed, community-based organizations with a recovery-focused mission.

o   PRO’s provide cost-effective, non-clinical recovery support services that reduce reliance on costly emergency services, treatment facilities, and incarceration.

o   Lowers relapse rates and supports long-term recovery, easing financial strain on public resources.

 

·      Personal Choice and Self-Sufficiency

o   PROs are governed and operated by individuals with lived recovery experience, promoting personal choice and empowerment.

o   Emphasizes strength-based, non-clinical support to help individuals build recovery capital and regain independence.

o   Encourages workforce participation and community reintegration, reducing dependency on public assistance.

 

·      Distinct from Clinical Services

o   PROs offer non-clinical, peer-led support that complements, rather than duplicates, formal treatment services.

o   Focuses on recovery support in everyday environments, bridging gaps that clinical services may not reach.

o   Prioritizes wellness and long-term recovery without medical interventions.

 

·      Workforce Development and Community Impact

o   Plays a key role in expanding the peer support workforce through training, mentorship, and field experience.

o   Strengthens local economies by creating jobs and skill-building opportunities within the recovery sector.

o   Reduces reliance on traditional clinical treatment programs while empowering communities to lead recovery efforts.