Bill > HB291

This bill establishes a certification process for community health workers (CHWs) in Georgia, defining a CHW as a frontline public health worker who provides culturally appropriate health education, outreach, and support within communities, acting as a bridge between individuals and health services. It creates the Georgia Community Health Worker Certification Committee, composed of various healthcare professionals, CHW employers, and practicing CHWs, to recommend standards for CHW certification and training programs to the Department of Public Health (DPH). The committee will also establish application procedures, review complaints, and set disciplinary actions, with its powers and duties transferring to the DPH in 2030. The bill outlines requirements for both CHW training programs and individual CHWs seeking certification, including educational background, criminal background checks, and proof of training and work experience, with provisions for individuals already working as CHWs before specific dates to obtain certification. The DPH will be responsible for approving training programs and issuing certifications based on the committee's recommendations and will promulgate necessary rules and regulations. This Act will only take effect if funds are specifically appropriated for its implementation.