An act relating to peer support provider and peer recovery support specialist certification

This bill establishes a formal certification system for peer support providers and peer recovery support specialists in Vermont, creating a new regulatory chapter under the state's professional regulations. The legislation defines these roles as individuals with lived experience of trauma, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders who provide nonclinical, evidence-based support services to help others navigate recovery and wellness. Key provisions include creating a credentialing body to issue certificates, requiring background checks for applicants, and setting specific fees for certification applications and biennial renewals. The bill also mandates codes of ethics for both roles and clarifies that while uncertified individuals can still provide these services, they cannot use titles or credentials that imply official certification.