Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones (R-GA), with the support of Senate Republican members of the Georgia Senate Health and Human Services Committee, issued a statement, recapping the committee’s work on behalf of healthcare providers and Georgians over the past four years.
In his statement, the Lt. Governor thanked Committee Chairman Ben Watson (R-01) and his Republican colleagues for leading the charge on healthcare reform. Lt. Gov. Jones reflected on their collaboration with Governor Brian Kemp (R-GA) to prioritize innovation, expand insurance coverage, and support medical education.
“These are just a few of the ways we have continued to ensure that every Georgian has access to affordable and appropriate health care regardless of their zip code. I am proud of the work we have done, and our record speaks for itself,” Lt. Gov. Jones explained. “When we work together and put the people of Georgia first, promises are kept, and lives are changed for the better, ensuring a healthier future for all Georgians.”
The Reforms
The commitment includes allotments provided for mental health services. $409 million has recently been provided for the construction of a 300-bed mental health services hospital.
There are also 900 New Options Waiver and Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program slots provided for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The commitment also includes new state-funded programs. As of March 2026, the Georgia Department of Community Health received approval for six renewed and four new State Directed Payment Programs, directing an estimated $4.5 billion in funding to eligible hospitals and providers.
Senate Republicans modified statutes governing the state's certificate of need process by creating new exemptions for equipment procurement, rural hospitals, the reopening of existing facilities, perinatal services, and birthing centers.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones and Senate HHS Republicans Champion Healthcare Access and Funding
“By working with Governor Brian Kemp, we prioritized innovative programs to draw down additional federal funding, expanded insurance coverage for Georgians across the state, and increased… pic.twitter.com/ji1km9U2hb
— Lt. Governor Burt Jones (@LtGovJonesGA) April 21, 2026
