GA SB449

Long-term care facilities (skilled nursing homes, intermediate care homes, assisted living communities, and personal care homes) with buildings two or more stories tall and at least 25 beds must acquire and maintain emergency backup power systems beginning January 1, 2027

Emergency power systems must sustain operations for at least 96 hours, covering safe egress, emergency lighting, life support equipment, and temperature control for resident health and safety

Acceptable power systems include on-site backup generators with sufficient fuel supply or alternate power sources approved by the Department of Community Health

Department of Community Health will establish a grant program, subject to appropriations, to help facilities acquire and install emergency power systems, with priority given to facilities in rural counties (population under 50,000 per 2020 census)

Department of Community Health and the Office of Safety Fire Commissioner will coordinate inspection and enforcement of compliance