159 counties urge state lawmakers to dedicate funding for additional resources 

(Lawrenceville, Ga., Feb. 29, 2023) – Gwinnett along with 158 counties adopted a mental health resolution to urge Gov. Brian Kemp and the General Assembly to continue mental health reform this legislative session.

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 – including the provision of 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 – was spearheaded by the Association CountyCommissioners of Georgia.

"We appreciate the leadership shown by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia in facilitating a joint call to action on a critical issue that impacts all of us,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “It is a privilege to join my esteemed colleagues in counties across the state in advocating for essential resources to expand mental health and behavioral health services to those who require them.”

Mental Health Reform is a 2024 ACCG legislative priority and the presidential initiative of Baldwin County Commissioner Henry Craig, who leads the association. “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,” said ACCG President Henry Craig. “In recent years, Georgia has made significant strides regarding mental health reform, and ACCG and Georgia’s counties have played a critical role in spearheading those efforts. 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.