summary
Introduced
03/10/2025
03/10/2025
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Chapter 4 of Title 25, Code Section 31-11-52, and Chapter 8 of Title 35 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to firefighter standards and training, certification and recertification of, and training for, paramedics and cardiac technicians, and employment and training of peace officers, respectively, so as to provide for training on encounters with individuals with physical, mental, or neurological conditions that impede the ability to communicate; to amend Chapter 5 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to drivers' licenses, so as to provide for the development of a Peach Envelope Program by the Department of Driver Services to promote effective communication during encounters with individuals with physical, mental, or neurological conditions that impede the ability to communicate; to provide for standards for such program; to provide for notation of such condition upon a driver's license; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to provide for effective dates; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the Georgia SAFE (Support and Awareness for Fair Encounters) Act, which creates the Peach Envelope Program to help individuals with physical, mental, or neurological conditions that impede communication during encounters with law enforcement, emergency services, and other officials. Starting in 2026, the bill requires specialized training for firefighters, paramedics, cardiac technicians, and peace officers on how to effectively communicate with and assist individuals who have communication challenges. The Department of Driver Services will develop a special envelope program that allows individuals to voluntarily request a symbol on their driver's license indicating their communication condition and receive an envelope containing essential documents and communication guidelines. Applicants must provide a sworn statement describing their condition, and the envelope will include an emergency contact card to help facilitate communication during interactions. The program aims to promote understanding, reduce misunderstandings, and ensure safer and more supportive interactions for individuals with communication impediments. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, for rule-making purposes and fully implemented on January 1, 2026.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (6)
Arlene Beckles (D)*,
Robert Flournoy (D)*,
Carolyn Hugley (D)*,
Dewey McClain (D)*,
Mekyah McQueen (D)*,
Dale Washburn (R)*,
Last Action
House Second Readers (on 03/13/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71277 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/235793 |
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