WEEK 10: COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER CERTIFICATION BILL AWAITS FINAL PUSH

As the 2026 legislative session enters its final days, one critical workforce bill remains stalled in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.

HB 291, which would establish Georgia’s first certification process for Community Health Workers (CHWs), crossed over to the Senate last year but has yet to receive a committee vote. With just a few legislative days remaining before Sine Die on April 2, time is running short for this important workforce investment.

CHWs play a vital role in Georgia’s health care system by bridging gaps between communities, social services, and health care providers. They go by many titles, including Patient Navigator, Community Health Navigator, and Promotora de Salud. HB 291 would create a state-approved certification process with standard training and competencies, helping CHWs do their work more effectively and sustainably.

Community Health Workers deserve professional recognition and consistent training standards. With limited time remaining in the session, members of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee need to hear that Georgians support this workforce investment.

Here’s what you need to know about HB 291 and where it stands: