Georgia House Bill HB109

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/25

Caption

Mental health; five-year pilot program for the purpose of creating emergency psychiatric assessment, treatment, and healing units or EmPATH units in hospitals; provide

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to significantly affect state laws pertaining to mental health treatment by formalizing the certification and regulation of EmPATH units. The initiative is anticipated to alleviate some of the burdens on emergency rooms and hospitals by diverting patients in crisis to dedicated units that are equipped to handle their needs effectively. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of at least one EmPATH unit in both rural and urban counties, thus ensuring statewide accessibility to these crucial services.

Summary

House Bill 109, known as the 'EmPATH Georgia Act', introduces a five-year pilot program aimed at establishing emergency psychiatric assessment, treatment, and healing units (EmPATH units) in hospitals. This program is designed to support individuals experiencing behavioral health crises by providing immediate, community-based treatment options as an alternative to traditional emergency department admissions. The bill outlines the operational framework for EmPATH units, which will operate 24/7 and will be required to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations within 24 hours of admission.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the passage of HB 109 could transform mental health crisis intervention within the state, promoting a more therapeutic approach to care rather than reliance on traditional emergency medical services. However, the actual effectiveness of the bill will depend heavily on the execution of its provisions, funding availability, and ongoing evaluation of the program's impact on mental health outcomes in the communities served.

Contention

Key points of discussion surrounding HB 109 involve concerns about funding and the adequacy of resources to ensure the program's success. While the bill allows for the acceptance of private and public funding, there are calls for clear assurances on sustainable financial support from the state to maintain these units post-pilot. Critics may also argue about the adequacy of oversight and quality standards that will be put in place to monitor the performance of these units, as well as the implications for existing mental health resources.