Georgia House Passes Bill Allowing For Limited Hospital Visits During Pandemic

House Speaker David Ralston spoke in favor of House Bill 290, which allows for limited visitation at hospitals during a public health emergency.

Emil Moffatt / WABE

A measure that would allow for limited next-of-kin access at hospitals and long-term care facilities, even during a public health emergency, has passed the Georgia House.

The measure’s sponsor, Republican Rep. Ed Setzler, says the bill restricts the visitation to one hour per day with health guidelines set up by the facility.

“It’s not about visitors; it’s about patients’ rights. It gives the patient the right to have their next of kin at their bedside to help them make critical decisions in the delivery of care,” said Setzler.