Legislation Establishing Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health Signed into Law

ATLANTA - State Representative Lauren Daniel (R-Locust Grove) recently joined Governor Brian Kemp as he signed House Bill 1046 into law. This legislation creates the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health, a key priority for Rep. Daniel during the 2024 legislative session. Rep. Daniel originally sponsored House Bill 1073 to create this commission, and that legislation was incorporated in HB 1046.

"The creation of the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health underscores our commitment to improving perinatal care programs and developing crucial quality metrics," said Rep. Daniel. "This comprehensive approach reflects our dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of mothers and infants across our state. I commend Governor Kemp and the tireless efforts of my legislative colleagues who worked diligently to push this bill across the finish line. The commission's work will serve as a cornerstone in our ongoing efforts to build a healthier and more resilient healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of Georgia's families."

"I am honored to help support Rep. Daniel successfully pass the Maternal and Infant Health Commission for Georgia women and Georgia families," said State Representative Mesha Mainor (R-Atlanta), a co-sponsor of the bill. "This key legislation will allow us to tackle disparities and save lives."

The Georgia Department of Public Health will appoint the 14-member Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health with six appointed by the governor, three by the Lt. Governor and three by the Speaker of the House. The governor's appointees, including an obstetrician, pediatrician or neonatologist, midwife and perinatal facility representative, will gather input from perinatal facilities, healthcare providers and related associations. The commission's duties include soliciting views on Georgia's perinatal care, considering recommendations from medical organizations, making policy suggestions, establishing quality measures and submitting state-wide recommendations by June 30, 2026.

House Bill 1046 will also allow advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to complete and sign death certificates under the authority of a physician.

Representative Lauren Daniel represents the citizens of District 117, which includes portions of Henry and Spalding counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Education and State Planning & Community Affairs committees. She also serves on the Transportation Committee.

Representative Mesha Mainor represents the citizens of District 56, which includes portions of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2020 and currently serves on the Education, Governmental Affairs, Regulated Industries and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.

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