ATLANTA – State Representative Anissa Jones (D-Macon) applauds the recent House Health Committee passage of House Bill 1346, the Georgia Maternal Mental Health Improvement Act. Sponsored by Rep. Jones, the legislation would ensure that health insurance policies issued in Georgia provide coverage for medically necessary maternal mental health screenings during pregnancy and for up to 12 months postpartum, along with treatment for women who screen positive for maternal mental health conditions.
“Mental health is health,” said Rep. Jones. “Too many mothers silently struggle with depression, anxiety and other perinatal mood disorders. This legislation would ensure that screening and treatment are not optional luxuries; they are part of comprehensive maternal care.”
House Bill 1346 would require insurance coverage for medically necessary maternal mental health screenings during pregnancy and for up to 12 months postpartum, along with treatment for women who screen positive for maternal mental health conditions. The bill would also allow services to be delivered both in person and through telehealth, with the goal of expanding access for rural and underserved communities. One in five women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and early identification can improve outcomes for both mothers and children. Additionally, the legislation would direct the relevant state department to develop measurable quality metrics, equity benchmarks and annual reporting requirements to ensure transparency and accountability. A three-year pilot program would prioritize high-risk and rural populations, integrating telehealth services and data collection to assess program effectiveness. Rep. Jones emphasizes that the bill would be fiscally responsible and prevention-focused, taking effect only upon legislative appropriation of funds.
“This is about catching issues early, supporting families and strengthening communities,” added Rep. Jones. “Healthy mothers are the foundation of healthy families. When we invest in early detection and access to care, we reduce long-term costs and improve lives across Georgia.”
The full text of HB 1346 may be found here. HB 1346 now awaits consideration by the House Rules Committee to be brought to the House floor for a full vote.
Representative Anissa Jones represents the citizens of District 143, which includes portions of Bibb and Houston counties. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves on the Economic Development & Tourism, Interstate Cooperation and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.
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