Advocates ask committee to study arts‑as‑medicine agenda; resolution would create arts and health commission

Representative Scofield introduced proponents of House Resolution 117, which would establish a statewide commission to study and recommend arts‑based interventions for mental health and well‑being.

Witnesses included Eve Bird of the Carter Center, Erin Jones of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Christopher Moses of the Alliance Theater. They cited peer‑review literature and program experience: testimony included statements that listening to relaxing music can lower cortisol substantially, that music therapy produced measurable improvements for some patients with major depressive disorder, and that arts engagement can improve cognitive function in people with dementia. The Atlanta Symphony cited a program expanding concerts for people with Alzheimer’s disease and early evaluation work in partnership with Emory’s Goizueta Alzheimer’s Research Center.

Speakers emphasized evidence and existing models: examples cited included state arts‑and‑health plans in other states and military music therapy programs for PTSD. Christopher Moses described a seven‑year Alliance Theater study finding positive effects on young people’s concentration, tolerance of multiple viewpoints and hope after arts field‑trip experiences.

Committee members asked practical questions about access and whether recorded or streamed arts experiences provide the same benefits as live, shared experiences. Advocates answered that community access and shared in‑person experiences were important and that an arts‑and‑health commission could help scale and coordinate public‑health and cultural resources. The committee did not take a vote on HR117 during the hearing; proponents asked lawmakers to consider the resolution and next steps for study and pilot programs.