Governor Kemp’s Patients First Act – Senate Bill 106 sponsored by Floor Leader Blake Tillery (R – Vidalia) – secured a favorable recommendation from the State Senate Health & Human Services Committee, chaired by physician and State Senator Ben Watson (R – Savannah).

“The Patients First Act offers an innovative pathway for the Peach State to enhance healthcare access, lower insurance premiums, and enhance quality of care for Georgia families. I thank the Senate Health and Human Services committee, Chairman Ben Watson, and Senator Blake Tillery for their diligent work on the bill. This legislation will allow state officials to craft a Georgia-centric healthcare plan that ensures a bright and healthy future for our state,” said Governor Kemp. “I look forward to working with the Georgia General Assembly to pass this measure and ultimately put Georgia patients first.”

“I applaud Chairman Ben Watson and the Senate Health and Human Services Committee for today’s substantive deliberation and decisive action. The Patients First Act is an important first step in reforming our healthcare system, and I look forward to working with the Senate to deliver on the Governor’s priorities: increasing access, reducing cost, and enhancing quality care," said Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan.

"Beginning on his first day in office, Governor Kemp has made clear his high expectations for the Georgia Department of Community Health. Increased access to healthcare, improved quality, and greater affordability have been at the forefront. I am very pleased to see the Senate Health and Human Services Committee advance legislation to allow the Governor and the Department to evaluate how we drive innovation for healthcare delivery for all of Georgia," said Department of Community Health Commissioner Frank Berry.