ATLANTA – State Representative Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) was recently named chairman of the Georgia Behavioral Health Reform & Innovation Commission by Governor Brian Kemp. The purpose of this commission is to conduct a comprehensive review of the behavioral health system in Georgia.
“I am honored that Governor Kemp appointed me to chair this vitally important commission,” said Rep. Tanner. “Through the extensive work of this commission, we will take a deep dive into Georgia’s mental health system to explore how our system currently supports adults and children in our state and the ways that we can enhance behavioral health services for our citizens.”
The Georgia Behavioral Health Reform & Innovation Commission was created by House Bill 514 during the 2019 legislative session and authored by Rep. Tanner. The commission will review the behavioral health services and facilities available in Georgia, the identification of behavioral health issues in children, adolescents and adults, as well as the role the education system has in the identification and treatment of behavioral health issues. Additionally, the commission will review the impact behavioral health issues have on the criminal justice system, the state’s homeless population, delivery of care, access to care, the role of payers in such access and the impact untreated behavioral illness has on children transitioning into adulthood. The commission will conclude on June 30, 2023.
“Mental health is a critical quality of life issue to the citizens of our state,” said Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge). “Led by Chairman Kevin Tanner, I know that this distinguished group of legislators and citizens will work together to improve service delivery throughout our behavioral health system. I thank Governor Kemp, Lt. Governor Duncan and my colleagues in both the House and Senate for adopting this collaborative approach to achieve better outcomes.”
For more information about House Bill 514, please click here.
Representative Kevin Tanner represents the citizens of District 9, which includes Lumpkin County and portions of Dawson and Forsyth counties. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2012 and currently serves as Chairman of the Transportation Committee. He also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and the Education, Intragovernmental Coordination, Rules, Natural Resources & Environment and Special Rules committees.
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