ut-20261015-R523-5: R523-5. Peer Support Specialist Training and Certification

1. Agency Information

Title catchline: Health and Human Services, Substance Use and Mental Health Building: Cannon Health Building Street address: 288 N 1460 W, Floor 3 City, state: Salt Lake City, UT Mailing address: 288 N 1460 W, Floor 3 City, state and zip: Salt Lake City, UT 84116

2. Contact Persons

Name: Phone: Email: Thomas Dunford 801-538-4181 tdunford@utah.gov Mariah Noble 385-214-1150 mariahnoble@utah.gov Please address questions regarding information on this notice to the persons listed above.

A. Rule or section catchline:

R523-5. Peer Support Specialist Training and Certification

B. Purpose of the new rule or reason for the change:

This filing is necessary to update this rule following the consolidation of the Department of Health and Human Services (department) and recodification of applicable statute. It updates statutory citations and complies with the Governor's Executive Order No. 2021-12 by aligning the rule language with the Rulewriting Manual for Utah. Further style and formatting changes align this rule with the structure of other rules under the department. Additionally, the Office of Substance Use and Mental Health (office) had previously created two rules to address peer support certification that addressed two separate types of peer support. Rule R523-5 was created to address certification for individuals seeking to be adult mental health and youth peer support specialists. Rule R523-6 was created to address certification for individuals seeking to be family resource facilitators for parents with children who are in treatment for behavioral health issues. Over the years, the office has moved to centralize peer support services into a single collaborative team, and the requirements for all types of peer support certification have become more homogenized with similar nationally recognized best practices. UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 37 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES These changes in peer support services caused the office to reevaluate the way peer support certifications were administered, so the office decided to combine the provisions in Rule R523-6 and this rule to create a central peer support certification rule as a way of standardizing peer support in the state, reducing administrative burden, and creating a more customer friendly process across all peer support specialties. Provisions previously housed in Rule R523-6 are therefore being moved into this rule, and Rule R523-6 will be repealed through a concurrent filing. Additional changes in this filing are meant to align this rule with nationally recognized standards and current practice and streamline practices to be more in line with the needs of people working in this industry, as identified by leadership in the Division of Integrated Health (division). (EDITOR'S NOTE: The proposed repeal of Rule R523-6 is under ID 58276 in this issue, October 15, 2026, of the Bulletin.)

C. Summary of the new rule or change:

This filing updates statutory citations, aligns this rule with the standards of the Rulewriting Manual for Utah and other rules under the department, and complies with the Governor's Executive Order No. 2021-12. It additionally implements provisions previously housed under Rule R523-6, which is being repealed through a concurrent filing. This filing renames certified peer support specialist types but retains existing requirements for each type. Requirements for becoming a family resource facilitator, now called a certified peer support specialist for families, that were previously in Rule R523-6 are added to this rule through this filing. Additionally, this filing makes several updates to align requirements in this rule with nationally recognized standards. This filing adds a new certification type for dual certified peer support specialist for families allows certified peer support specialist for adults to also work with parents of children with behavioral health challenges. This filing also updates certification and renewal requirements, including continuing education requirements, for certified peer support specialists across all certification types. Curriculum for peer support specialist training is updated through this filing to clarify requirements and match current practices. It has also been expanded to include curriculum for the new certification type and align with nationally recognized standards. This filing further updates requirements for agencies seeking to provide peer support specialist training for clarity and to match current practice. It also adds peer support specialist supervision requirements to align this rule more closely with statutory requirements and a corrective action plan to align with current practice. It adds a definition for peer support services and adds a code of ethics for peer support specialist to create clarity and consistency. Finally, this filing adds standards to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining certification in a different state. 5. Fiscal Information Provide an estimate and written explanation of the aggregate anticipated cost or savings to:

A. State budget:

There is no anticipated fiscal impact, cost or savings, on the state budget because of this filing. The addition of provisions that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to have a fiscal impact because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because these processes already exist and are being followed by the state. 38 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented by the state. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns this rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to the state budget because the division already reviews peer support services in the local authority services system and assists agencies in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because state processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to the state because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens on staff. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to the state budget. Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to the state because it implements elements of the state's existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, processing these cases is anticipated to fall within the existing scope of staff.

B. Local governments:

There is no anticipated fiscal impact, cost or savings, on local governments because of this filing. The addition of provisions that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to have a fiscal impact because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because these processes already exist and are being followed by local governments. New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns this rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to local governments because the division already reviews peer support services and assists local agencies in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to local governments because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to local governments. UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 39 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to local governments because it implements elements of existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, fulfilling those requirements is anticipated to fall within the existing scope for applicants.

C. Small businesses ("small business" means a business employing 1-49 persons):

There is no anticipated fiscal impact, cost or savings, on small businesses because of this filing. The addition of provisions that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to have a fiscal impact because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because these processes already exist and are being followed by small businesses. New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns the rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to small businesses because the division already reviews peer support services and assists small businesses in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to small businesses because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to small businesses. Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to small businesses because it implements elements of existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, fulfilling those requirements is anticipated to fall within the existing scope for applicants.

D. Non-small businesses ("non-small business" means a business employing 50 or more persons):

There is no anticipated fiscal impact, cost or savings, on non-small businesses because of this filing. The addition of provisions that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to have a fiscal impact because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because these processes already exist and are being followed by non-small businesses. New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns the rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to non-small businesses because the division already reviews peer support services and assists non-small businesses in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. 40 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to non-small businesses because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to non-small businesses. Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to non-small businesses because it implements elements of existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, fulfilling those requirements is anticipated to fall within the existing scope for applicants. E. Persons other than small businesses, non-small businesses, state, or local government entities ("person" means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, governmental entity, or public or private organization of any character other than an agency): There is no anticipated fiscal impact, cost or savings, on other persons, including nonprofits and individuals, because of this filing. The addition of provisions that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to have a fiscal impact because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because these processes already exist and are being followed by other persons. New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns this rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to other persons because the division already reviews peer support services and assists other persons in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact because processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to other persons because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to other persons. Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in a fiscal impact to other persons because it implements elements of existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, fulfilling those requirements is anticipated to fall within the existing scope for applicants.

F. Compliance costs for affected persons:

The amendments in this rule require no additional compliance costs for affected persons, including the state, local governments, small businesses, non-small businesses, and other persons, including nonprofits and individuals. UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 41 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES The addition of provisions into this rule that were previously housed in Rule R523-6, which is in the process of being repealed through a concurrent filing, is not anticipated to result in compliance costs because those provisions already exist and will continue to be enforced through the other rule until this filing is made effective. Updates that are being made in this rule to clarify language in this rule and align it with current practice are not anticipated to result in a compliance cost because these processes already exist and are being followed by affected persons. New definitions and the renaming of existing certification types are also not anticipated to result in compliance costs because, while they update terminology, they do not introduce any new processes that have not already been implemented. The specification of supervision requirements fulfills a statutory mandate for this type of clarification and aligns the rule with existing practice. The addition of a corrective action process is not anticipated to increase costs to affected persons because the division already reviews peer support services and assists affected persons in rectifying issues that arise from unethical or illegal actions of a certified peer support specialist. Updates to certification and renewal requirements, including additional education requirements, are also not anticipated to result in compliance costs because processes already exist for issuing and renewing certifications and providing training to fulfill education requirements for people seeking certification. Both the process for an entity to obtain a contract to become a training program and the training provided to individuals seeking a peer support specialist certification are free. The addition of a new certification type and expanded curriculum is also not anticipated to result in a compliance costs to affected persons because the processes for certification and training will follow a similar pattern to existing processes for other certification types and are not anticipated increase administrative burdens. While this filing increases training requirements for certified peer support specialists to meet nationally recognized standards, the division already offers this training free of charge. Although some individuals may choose to participate in training from an outside entity that charges a fee for participation, the division's free training is available to anyone seeking to meet these requirements. Therefore, this training is not anticipated to create any additional cost to affected persons. Finally, this filing adds a process to allow for out-of-state reciprocity for professionals in this field who move to Utah after obtaining a comparable certification in a different state, which is not anticipated to result in compliance costs to affected persons because it implements elements of existing certification processes to streamline approvals for certification of these professionals. Therefore, fulfilling those requirements is anticipated to fall within the existing scope for applicants. 6. Regulatory Impact Summary Table Enter the cost or savings in the relevant cell. If there is no cost or savings, enter, "$0." If a cost or savings is inestimable, enter, "inestimable." Fiscal Cost FY2027 FY2028 FY2029 FY2030 FY2031 State Budget $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Local Governments $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Small Businesses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Non-Small Businesses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Other Persons $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Total Fiscal Cost $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Fiscal Benefits FY2027 FY2028 FY2029 FY2030 FY2031 State Budget $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Local Governments $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Small Businesses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Non-Small Businesses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Other Persons $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Total Fiscal Benefits $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Net Fiscal Benefits $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 42 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES 7. Regulatory Impact Analysis Approval The Commission of the Department of Health and Human Services, Tracy S. Gruber, has reviewed and approved this regulatory impact analysis. 8. Family Impact Information

A. The agency has considered this rule's impact on family health, stability, and formation: ☒

9. Citation Information Provide citations to the statutory authority for the rule. If there is also a federal requirement for the rule, provide a citation to that requirement: Subsection 26B-5-102(2)(gg) 11. Public Notice Information The public may submit written or oral comments to the agency identified in box 1.

A. Comments will be accepted until: 11/16/2026

12. Effective Date Information This rule change MAY become effective on: 11/23/2026 (NOTE: This is the date the agency anticipates making the filing effective. It is NOT the effective date) 13. Agency Authorization Information Agency head or Tracy S. Gruber, Commissioner Date: 09/28/2026 designee and title: R523. Health and Human Services, Substance Use and Mental Health. [R523-5. Peer Support Specialist Training and Certification. R523-5-1. Purpose. (1) Purpose. This rule prescribes standards for certification of Peer Support Specialist Training programs; the qualifications required of instructors for providing Peer Support Training; and the requirements to become a Peer Support Specialist and establishes guidelines for population specific peer support services. R523-5-2. Authority. (1) These standards are promulgated by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services through the Division of Integrated Healthcare as authorized by Subsection 26B-5-102(2)(gg). R523-5-3. Intent. (1) The peer support specialist training establishes training programs to certify individuals that have completed requisite training to work as substance use disorder and/or mental health peer support specialists and provide services based on service guidelines. R523-5-4. Definitions. (1) "Peer Support Specialist (PSS)" is an individual who has successfully completed an approved Peer Support Specialist Training Program and for ongoing certification has met the requirements outlined in Section R523-5-8. (2) "Approved Curriculum" means a curriculum which has been approved by the division in accordance with these rules. (3) "Certification" means that the division verifies the individual has met the requirements outlined in this rule to be a peer support specialist and has completed the required training. (4) "Director" means the director of the Division of Integrated Healthcare. (5) "Division" means the Division of Integrated Healthcare. (6) "Peer Support Specialist Training Program" is an instructional series operated by an approved agency or organization which satisfies the standards established by the division and is herein referred to as a "Peer Support Specialist Training Program". (7) "Program Certificate" is a written authorization issued by the division to the training entity which indicates that the Program has been found to be in compliance with these division standards. (8) "Recovery" is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential. (9) "Youth-In-Transition" means young people who are between the ages of 16 and 25, or those outside of this age range for which peer support services have been deemed developmentally and socially appropriate by a licensed mental health therapist. UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 43 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES R523-5-5. Certification Requirements for Peer Support Specialist Training Programs. (1) An application for Program Certification will require that the program provide, among other things: (a) Qualifications of individuals who will be providing the training. (b) Acurriculum that outlines no less than forty (40) hours of face-to-face instruction covering the curriculum requirements outlined in Section R523-5-7 for a PSS. (c) Aplan to ensure that instructors continue to meet reported qualifications and adhere to the approved curriculum. (d) An agreement to maintain records of the individual's attendance and completion of all program requirements for at least seven years. (e) An agreement to comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. (2) The division director has the authority to grant exceptions to any of the certification requirements. R523-5-6. Division Oversight of Program. (1) The division may enter and survey the physical facility, program operation, review curriculum and interview staff to determine compliance with this rule or any applicable contract to provide such services. (2) The PSS Training Program shall also allow representatives from the division and from the local authorities as authorized by the division to attend the classes held. Such visits may be announced or unannounced. (3) The division will establish an application process to review and approve applicants for the PSS Training Program. This process will: (a) Develop and publish an application to be a PSS. (b) Solicit input from stakeholders, PSS's and other individuals on the review process. (c) Establish further criteria for acceptance into the PSS program as needed. R523-5-7. Curriculum Requirements forAdult Peer Support Specialist Training Programs. (1) This curriculum shall provide at least forty (40) hours of instruction for original certification and twenty (20) hours for any and all re-certifications. The curriculum shall include the following components as they relate to the PSS's lived experience and recovery in order to assist in the identified client's strengths working towards recovery: (a) Etiology of mental illness and substance use disorders; (b) The stages of recovery from mental illness and substance use disorders; (c) The relapse prevention process; (d) Combating negative self-talk; (e) The Role of peer support in the recovery process and using your recovery story as a recovery tool; (f) Dynamics of change; (g) Ethics of peer support; (h) Professional relationships, boundaries and limits; (i) Scope of peer support; (j) Cultural competence: self-awareness - cultural identity; (k) Stigma and labeling; (l) Community resources to support individuals in recovery; (m) Assisting individuals in accomplishing recovery goals; (n) Coach, mentor, and role model recovery; (o) Assist in identification of natural, formal and informal supports; (p) Stress management techniques; (q) Assist individuals in reaching educational and vocational goals; (r) Crisis prevention; and (s) Assist with physical health and wellness. (2) The curriculum shall include: (a) Active listening and communication skills; and (b) Basic motivational interviewing skills. (3) The curriculum must include a strong emphasis on ethical behavior, dual relationships, scope of peer support and professional boundaries and should include case studies, role plays and experiential learning. R523-5-8. Requirements to Become a PSS. (1) Be an individual who participated in substance use disorder or mental health treatment services who is now in sustained recovery, or (2) Be an individual in recovery from substance use or mental health disorders through means other than treatment services who is now in sustained recovery. (3) Be at least 18 years of age. (4) Complete the application process with the division. (5) Pass the qualification exam with score of 70% or above. (6) Have attended and successfully completed a division approved PSS training program and have a valid certificate from that training. 44 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES (7) If an individual fails the division examination twice within a 30 day period of time, they must wait 30 days before taking the examination again. R523-5-9. Requirements to Remain Qualified as a PSS. (1) Complete atleast twenty (20)hours of continuing education (CEUs) every two (2) yearsincluding two (2) hoursof ethics training, six (6) hours pertaining specifically to peer support services, one (1) hour of suicide prevention training and eleven (11) hours of general mental health and/or substance use disorder training. (2) Each PSS shall maintain adequate documentation as proof of compliance with this Section, such as a certificate of completion, school transcript, course description, or other course materials. The PSS shall retain this proof for a period of three years after the end of the renewal cycle for which the continuing education is due; and (a) At a minimum, the documentation shall contain the following: (i) Date of the course; (ii) Name of the course provider; (iii) Name of the instructor; (iv) Course title; (v) Number of hours of continuing education credit; and (vi) Course objectives. (3) Each certified PSS shall abide by the Provider Code of Conduct pursuant to Section R495-876, and as also found in the Department of Health and Human Services Provider Code of Conduct Policy. (a) Eachemployer that becomesaware of acertified PSSengaging in unprofessionalor unlawfulconduct, orhasviolatedthe provider code of conduct shall: (i) immediately take action to review the allegations, (ii) take steps to ensure that all individuals involved with the allegation are protected, and (iii) notify the division within 30 days. (b) Terminationof certification shall be made effective immediately if the alleged violation(s) results in one or more of the following: (i) personal financial gain through deception, or a business transaction with a client, by the PSS, (ii) physical or emotional harm to a person that is caused by the PSS, or (iii) a financial loss to a client, the State, or another employee that is caused by the PSS. (c) The divisionshall take the following actions when it becomes aware of a certified PSS in violation of the provider code ofconduct that does not result in immediate termination: (i) Within 30 days of becoming aware of the violation(s), the division shall notify the certified PSS, in writing, through a Notice of AgencyAction specifying the area(s) of noncompliance. (ii) Within 30 days of receiving a notice of Agency Action, the certified PSS shall submit an acceptable written plan to the division explaining how they will achieve compliance. (iii) All plans shall demonstrate how the certified PSS shall be in compliance within 30 days after receiving the Notice of Agency Action. (iv) If an acceptable plan of action is not receivedby the division within 30 days of sending the Notice ofAgencyAction, the certified PSS shall be notified that their certification has been suspended until an acceptable plan is submitted to the division. (v) Acertified PSS must cease providing any and all peer support services until a suspension is lifted. (d) The division shall revoke the certification of any certified PSS for the following reasons: (i) The certified PSS fails to provide the division with written evidence of compliance to a plan of action within 30 days after the PSS receives a Notice ofAgencyAction that their certification has been suspended. (ii) The certified PSS continues to provide peer support services during the period of a suspension; or (iii) The certified PSS receives more than two notices of noncompliance with the Provider Code of Conduct in a one-year period. (e) Any PSS whose certification has been revoked may request an informal hearing with the Division director or designee, in writing, within 10 business days of receiving notice of revocation. (f) The division director or designee shall review the request and determine to uphold, amend or reverse the action within 10 business days, and the division shall inform the PSS of the decision in writing. (g) Any PSS with a revoked certification may not reapply for recertification for a period of twelve months. (h) If a certified PSS fails to complete the requirements for CEUs, their certificate will be allowed to expire and shall not be renewed until the required CEUs have been completed and submitted to the division for approval. R523-5-10. Population Specific Guidelines. (1) Typically a PSS works with individuals age 18 and older. (2) A PSS may work with Youth-In-Transition if the PSS has completed Youth-In-Transition training, in addition to any other PSS training, of no less than 8 hours, and receives a Youth-In-Transition endorsement from the division on their PSS certification. R523-5-11. Curriculum Requirements forYouth-In-Transition Training Programs. (1) This curriculum shall provide at least eight (8) hours of instruction for the Youth-In-Transition endorsement of PSS certification. The curriculum, which shall be approved by the division, shall include, but not be limited to, the following components as they relate toYouth- In-Transition: (a) Meaning of Youth-In-Transition and specific challenges related to this population; UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 45 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES (b) Preferred practice models and tools; (c) Population specific material regarding: common challenges, barriers, resources, relationship issues, recovery, housing, employment, legal, crisis, cultural and self-care. (d) Professional relationships, boundaries and limits. (2) The curriculum must be strength based and shall include: (a) Active listening and communication skills; and (b) Basic motivational interviewing skills. (3) The curriculum shall include a strong emphasis on ethical behavior, dual relationships, scope of peer support and professional boundaries and shall include case studies, role plays and experiential learning specific to Youth-In-Transition. (4) The division, PSS, mental health and substance use disorder professionals and advocate organizations shall regularly review and make evidence-based updates to the curriculum at least every two years. Final determination on curriculum changes or updates shall be made by the division. ]R523-5. Peer Support Specialist Training and Certification. R523-5-1. Authority and Purpose. (1) Subsection 26B-5-102(2)(gg) authorizes this rule. (2) This rule prescribes standards for: (a) certification of peer support specialist training programs; (b) qualifications required of instructors for providing peer support specialist training; (c) requirements to become a peer support specialist; and (d) population-specific peer support services. R523-5-2. Definitions. (1) "CPSS-A" means a certified peer support specialist for adults who uses lived experience in recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder to support, assist, and mentor individuals in recovery and through integration into the community. (2) "CPSS-F" means a certified peer support specialist for families who uses lived experience of actively being involved in parenting or caring for a child or family member with mental health, substance use, or other behavioral health challenges to support, assist, and mentor parents with children working on recovery and integration into the community. (3) "CPSS-YYA" means a certified peer support specialist for youth and young adults who uses lived experience with the behavioral healthcare system or other youth-serving systems to support, assist, and mentor individuals ages 14 through 26 or individuals for which youth peersupportserviceshavebeendeemeddevelopmentallyandsociallyappropriatebyalicensedmentalhealththerapist,asdefinedinSubsection 58-60-102(15), in recovery and through integration into the community. (4) "Division" means the Division of Integrated Healthcare, within the Department of Health and Human Services. (5) "Dual CPSS-F Training" means an expedited training program to certify a CPSS-Awith lived experience being actively involved in parenting or caring for a child or family member with behavioral health challenges as a CPSS-F. (6) "Expired" means a certification that has not been renewed by the renewal date, as outlined in Subsection R523-5-7(3), and is no longer active. (7) "Lived experience" means first-hand knowledge or direct experience gained from life events related to behavioral health, mental health, or substance use challenges. (8) "Peer support services" means individual or group services that: (a) promote recovery, resilience, rehabilitation, engagement, and self-advocacy; and (b) identify strengths to set recovery goals and steps to reach the goals. (9) "Peer support specialist training program" means an instructional series that satisfies the standards established by the division and is operated by an entity approved by the division. (10) "PSS" means peer support specialist who is an individual certified as a CPSS-A, CPSS-F, or CPSS-YYA. (11) "Recovery" means a process of change through which individuals improve health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach that individual's full potential. (12)(a) "Social determinants of health" means the non-medical, environmental conditions that significantly affect health, functioning, and quality of life outcomes, including where a person is born, lives, learns, works, plays, and worships and that person's age. (b) Factors for social determinants of health may also include economic stability, education, neighborhood quality, social context, and health care access. (13) "Supervision" means the ongoing professional and collaborative activity that meets the requirements of Subsection R523-5-9(2) between a supervisor and a PSS in which the supervisor provides feedback and guidance to support the PSS's performance and growth. R523-5-3. Requirements for Peer Support Specialist Training Programs. (1) An entity may apply to the division to qualify as a peer support specialist training program. (2) An applicant shall include in the submitted application: (a) the qualifications of each individual who will be providing the training; (b) a division-approved curriculum that meets requirements described in Section R523-5-4 and outlines 40 hours of total training, with: (i) at least 16 hours of in-person instruction; and (ii) the remaining 24 hours of optional hybrid or in-person instruction; (c) a plan to ensure that each instructor continues to meet reported qualifications and adhere to the approved curriculum; 46 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES (d) an agreement to maintain records of participant attendance and completion of program requirements for at least seven years; and (e) an agreement to comply with each applicable local, state, and federal law and regulation. (3) The division shall determine whether the curriculum and application meet technical criteria sufficient to maintain the fidelity of the peer support specialist training program. (4) The division director or designee may grant an exception to any of the certification requirements. (5) In accordance with Subsection R523-5-3(2)(a), a peer support specialist training program shall notify the division if: (a) an approved trainer leaves employment; or (b) a new trainer is hired to provide peer support specialist training. R523-5-4. Curriculum Requirements for Peer Support Specialist Training Programs. (1) Each peer support specialist training program's curriculum shall include: (a) advocacy and stigma; (b) approaches to trauma informed care; (c) case studies; (d) communication, language, and group skills, such as peer-to-peer engagement and storytelling; (e) community resources that include social determinants of health to support individuals in recovery; (f) crisis response; (g) experiential learning; (h) ethics of peer support, including: (i) boundaries; (ii) limits; (iii) professionalism; and (iv) relationships; (i) history of recovery movements in mental health, substance use, and families; (j) identification of natural, formal, and informal supports; (k) motivational interviewing; (l) role plays; (m) self-care and wellness in the supportive role. (n) suicide and overdose prevention; (o) the role and scope of peer support; (p) underserved communities; and (q) understanding and identifying mental health, substance use, and co-occurring conditions. (2) In addition to requirements described in Subsection (1), the CPSS-Acurriculum shall also include: (a) the stages of recovery from mental health and substance use disorders; (b) computer and digital health literacy, such as computer skills and virtual peer support; (c) recovery and resiliency planning, resources, and tools; (d) values and principles of peer support, recovery, and resiliency; (e) self-help and mutual support groups; and (f) self-determination, choice, and shared decision making. (3) In addition to requirements described in Subsection (1), the CPSS-F curriculum shall also include: (a) community resources that include social determinants of health to support families; (b) general information regarding the behavioral health system, child serving systems, education system, justice system, and physical health systems; (c) information regarding social services and child welfare systems, including the mandatory reporting laws; (d) training on how the CPSS-F can assist with reaching age appropriate educational and vocational goals; (e) training on how to collaborate with multiple entities; and (f) training on how to promote voice and choice at every level of systems service. (4) In addition to the requirements described in Subsection (1), the CPSS-YYAcurriculum shall also include: (a) information regarding social services and child welfare systems, including mandatory reporting laws; and (b) information regarding the eight dimensions of wellness, which includes emotional, physical, intellectual, social, spiritual, occupational, financial, and environmental wellness. (5) In addition to the requirements described in Subsection (3), the dual CPSS-F training curriculum shall also include at least eight hours of instruction containing information about: (a) systemsofcarethathighlightstheprovisionoffamily-driven,youth-guided,culturallycompetent,andcommunity-basedservices; and (b) the history of the family involvement movement in treating children and youth. R523-5-5. Requirements to Become a PSS. (1) An individual seeking to obtain a PSS certification shall: (a) submit an application to the division; (b) attend and successfully complete a division-approved PSS training program and have a valid certificate verifying completion of that training; UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 47 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES (c) pass a division-approved qualification examination with a minimum score of 70%; and (d) at each initial and renewal certification, attest to having read and agree to adhere to the: (i) provider code of conduct and client rights, pursuant to Rule R380-80; and (ii) PSS code of ethics, as described in Section R523-5-12. (2) ACPSS-Acertification applicant shall: (a) provide evidence: (i) of the applicant's lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges; and (ii) that the applicant has been in successful recovery for at least one year; and (b) be at least 18 years old. (3) ACPSS-F certification applicant shall: (a) provide evidence of the applicant's lived experience of actively being involved in parenting or caring for a child or family member with mental health, substance use, or other behavioral health challenges; and (b) be at least 18 years old. (4) ACPSS-YYAcertification applicant shall: (a) provide evidence of the applicant's lived experience navigating child serving systems or in recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder; and (b) be an adult under 31 years old at the time of certification. (5) In lieu of formal educational requirements, an applicant may demonstrate literacy and fluency in the language in which the applicant will be providing services, through a division-approved examination or other application requirements. (6) An accepted PSS application is valid for 12 months. (7) If an applicant fails the qualification examination twice within a 30 day period, the applicant shall wait 30 days from the most recent failed examination before taking the examination again. R523-5-6. Out-of-State Reciprocity. An applicant may satisfy the requirements for peer support specialist certification by: (1) holding an active peer support specialist certification in good standing issued in a state or territory outside of Utah; (2) providing documentation of completion of a peer support specialist training that is at least 40 hours; (3) completing the application process with the division; (4) passing the qualification exam with a score of 70% or higher; and (5) attesting to having read and agreeing to adhere to the: (a) provider code of conduct and client rights, pursuant to Rule R380-80; and (b) PSS Code of Ethics, as described in Section R523-5-12. R523-5-7. Certification Renewal. (1) APSS shall submit a recertification application every two years to renew certification. (2) Certification is considered expired if the certification is not renewed by the renewal date. (3) Renewal dates shall be: (a) for CPSS-A, September 30th of each even year; (b) for CPSS-F, June 30th of each even year; and (c) for CPSS-YYA, June 30th of each even year. (4) If a PSS submits the recertification application between six months to one year after the renewal date, the PSS shall: (a) complete 20 hours of continuing education; (b) submit documentation of continuing education; (c) submit a recertification application; (d) reaffirm compliance with the provider code of conduct and client rights, pursuant to Rule R380-80; (e) reaffirm compliance with the PSS Code of Ethics, as described in Section R523-5-12; and (f) pass a division-approved qualification examination with a minimum score of 70%. (5) If an individual submits a recertification application one year or more after the renewal date, the individual shall reapply and complete the requirements outlined in Section R523-5-6 to reacquire certification. (6) A CPSS-YYA certification automatically expires on the PSS's 31st birthday and may not be renewed, regardless of expiration date. (7) A CPSS-YYA shall complete the requirements outlined in Section R523-5-5 and complete a CPSS-A training program if the CPSS-YYAwishes to remain certified under a CPSS-Acertification. R523-5-8. Continuing Education. (1) The continuing education requirements for each two-year renewal period cycle begin on the certification issue date. (2) APSS shall complete at least 20 hours of continuing education units every two years, including: (a) two hours of suicide prevention training; (b) three hours of ethics training; (c) five hours of training pertaining specifically to peer support services; and (d) ten hours of mental health and substance use disorder training, including training on general health. 48 UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES (3) Individualswho arecompletingthefirstcycleofcontinuingeducationandhavenotbeencertified fortwofull yearsshallcomplete a prorated amount of continuing education to include one hour for each month certified up to 20 hours, beginning on the certification issue date and ending on the expiration date. (4) Each PSS shall maintain adequate documentation as proof of compliance with this section, such as: (a) a certificate of completion; (b) a school transcript; (c) a course description; or (d) other course materials. (5) The PSS shall keep proof of continuing education credits for three years after the end of the renewal cycle. R523-5-9. Peer Support Supervision Requirements. (1) Peer support supervision may be provided by: (a) a mental health therapist, as defined in Subsection 58-60-102(15); (b) a substance use disorder counselor, as defined in Subsection 58-60-502(9), with at least two years of experience; or (c) a PSS who: (i) has completed a division-approved supervisor training; and (ii) has at least two years of continuous certification without any sustained notices of violation issued by the division within that time. (2) Supervision for a PSS may occur: (a) in an individual or group setting; and (b) face-to-face or through teleconference. (3) Supervision shall be regular, scheduled, and documented. (4) Supervision shall be provided at least weekly. (5) Apeer support supervisor may supervise a maximum of eight PSSs. R523-5-10. Peer Support Services. (1) Apeer support specialist may use lived experience to assist individuals or families with recovery. (2) Peer support services may be provided in a clinical or non-clinical setting. (3) Peer support services shall be based on an individualized plan of care that includes specific individualized goals. R523-5-11. Unprofessional Conduct. (1) Each PSS shall abide by the provider code of conduct and client rights, pursuant to Rule R380-80. (2) Any provider or supervisor that becomes aware of a PSS who has violated the provider code of conduct and client rights shall: (a) immediately review the allegation; (b) take steps to ensure that any individual involved with the allegation is protected; and (c) notify the division within 30 days. (3) If an alleged violation results in a substantiated finding, the division shall, within 30 days of substantiating the violation: (a) notify the PSS of the finding; and (b) revoke the PSS's certification. (4) An individual may not represent that the individual is certified as a PSS in Utah unless that individual has an active certification under this rule. (5) APSS with a revoked certification may not reapply for recertification for 12 months after the revocation. R523-5-12. PSS Code of Ethics. (1) Apeer support specialist shall accurately represent any qualifications, expertise, and certifications to the public and anyindividual that peer support specialist serves. (2) Apeer support specialist may not serve as both a peer support specialist and a 12-step sponsor for an individual in recovery. (3) Apeer support specialist may not engage in any romantic relationship or sexual activity with any: (a) individual the peer support specialist serves or has served; (b) member of the immediate family of an individual the peer support specialist serves or has served; or (c) caregiver of an individual the peer support specialist serves or has served. (4) A peer support specialist may not provide peer support services to an individual with whom the peer support specialist has had any prior romantic relationship or sexual activity. KEY: peer support specialists, PSS program, certification of programs, substance use disorder Date of Last Change: [November 9, 2025]2026 Notice of Continuation: December 1, 2025 Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 26B-5-102(2)(gg) UTAH STATE BULLETIN, October 15, 2026, Vol. 2026, No. 20 49 NOTICES OF PROPOSED RULES NOTICE OF SUBSTANTIVE CHANGE TYPE OF FILING: Repeal Filing ID: 58276