Franklin County Commissioners Adopt Resolution on Mental Health Legislation

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners recently adopted a resolution urging Gov. Brian Kemp and the General Assembly to continue mental health reform efforts this legislative session.

Franklin County is one of all 159 counties in Georgia that have adopted the resolution.

The effort to have each county adopt a resolution specifically urging the Governor and General Assembly to continue efforts to enhance citizens’ access to vital mental health services was spearheaded by the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG).

Mental Health Reform is a 2024 ACCG legislative priority and the initiative of Baldwin County Commissioner Henry Craig, who leads the association.

In a press release, Craig said counties are the closest constitutional form of government to their constituents and are often on the frontline of addressing pressing community issues like mental health.

He added that, as the mental health crisis persists, it is incumbent upon local and state leaders to devise solutions for all who call our state home.

Georgia’s counties acknowledge and appreciate previous legislative efforts, such as the passage of the Mental Health Parity Act in 2022 and the introduction of additional legislation in 2023 and 2024.

County officials are especially appreciative of Governor Kemp for including a total increase of $205 million for mental health funding in this year’s state budget proposals. However, they recognize the significant need for further action by members of the General Assembly to affirm their commitment to improving mental health services.

The resolution asks State lawmakers to include state budgetary funding for additional behavioral health crisis centers across the state, additional co-responder units, and other resources to assist those with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

ACCG is Georgia’s county association and works on behalf of county officials and their communities by providing a host of services and cost-saving programs.

Formed in 1914 when county officials came together to help fund the state’s first highway department, ACCG today serves as a catalyst for advancing Georgia’s counties.

For more information, go to www.accg.org