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HB 584

Health; reassign licensing and oversight of certain treatments and programs from Departments of Community Health to Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katie Dempsey and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 584 shifts oversight of drug and mental health treatment programs in Georgia to improve care quality, accountability, and resident protections starting January 2026.

Effective Date
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Bill Summary · HB 584

Summary of House Bill 584

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 584
  • Title: Health; reassign licensing and oversight of certain treatments and programs from Departments of Community Health to Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
  • Status: Effective Date
  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • Effective Date: January 1, 2026
  • Sponsors: Jesse Petrea, John LaHood, Brian Prince, Ron Stephens, Katie Dempsey, Darlene Taylor

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 584 aims to enhance the regulation and oversight of drug abuse treatment and education programs, narcotic treatment programs, community living arrangements, and adult residential mental health programs in Georgia. The bill transfers the licensing and oversight responsibilities from the Department of Community Health to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. This change is intended to streamline regulatory processes and improve the quality of care provided in these programs.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Reassignment of Oversight:

    • Licensing and oversight of specified treatment programs will be moved to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

  2. Regulatory Framework:

    • The bill establishes a framework for departmental regulation, including the authority to create rules and regulations necessary for implementation.

  3. Licensing Requirements:

    • No governing body may operate a drug abuse treatment program without a valid license issued by the new department.
    • Licenses issued by the Department of Community Health prior to December 31, 2025, will remain valid until revoked or renewed.

  4. Emergency Provisions:

    • The bill allows for the issuance of emergency orders and the establishment of emergency plans to protect residents in treatment programs.

  5. On-Site Inspections:

    • The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is authorized to conduct on-site inspections of licensed programs.

  6. Reporting and Accountability:

    • Certain individuals will be required to report suspected abuse or exploitation, with protections for whistleblowers against retaliation.
    • Annual reports will be published, detailing treatment enrollment and discharge statistics while maintaining patient confidentiality.

  7. Civil Penalties:

    • The bill outlines civil penalties for violations of the regulations established under this act.

Impact

The transition of oversight to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is expected to:
- Improve the quality and consistency of care in drug and mental health treatment programs.
- Enhance accountability and transparency in the operation of these programs.
- Provide better protections for residents and former residents in community living arrangements.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Referred to the Judiciary and Health Affairs Committee.
  • March 4, 2025: Passed by the House.
  • March 20, 2025: Passed by the Senate.
  • May 1, 2025: Signed by the Governor.
  • January 1, 2026: Effective date of the bill.

Conclusion

House Bill 584 represents a significant shift in the oversight of drug and mental health treatment programs in Georgia, aiming to enhance regulatory effectiveness and improve care for individuals in need of these services. The bill's provisions are designed to ensure that treatment programs operate under a robust regulatory framework that prioritizes the health and safety of residents.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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