Peach Tree Times

State Representative Mark Newton (R-Augusta), Chairman of the House Committee on Interstate Cooperation, has been appointed by Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) to serve on the House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management.

“As both an emergency physician and a state legislator, I understand firsthand the dedication of our medical teams in not only curing diseases but also minimizing pain and discomfort for patients,” said Chairman Newton. “It’s crucial that we explore alternatives that effectively provide pain relief while mitigating the risk of addiction and other adverse effects of treatment. I am eager to contribute to this study committee, which aims to identify new best practices in pain control.”

The House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management was established following the adoption of House Resolution 1360 during the 2024 legislative session. This committee will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Georgia’s pain management industry, aiming to raise awareness of non-opioid alternatives, including non-opioid pharmacologic treatments. It will prioritize educational programs for healthcare providers and foster enhanced collaboration among all caregivers involved in pain treatment. The committee’s findings will be submitted as proposed legislation during the upcoming 2025 legislative session.

Speaker Burns also appointed State Representatives Katie Dempsey (R-Rome), Butch Parrish (R-Swainsboro), Lee Hawkins (R-Gainesville), Sharon Cooper (R-Marietta), Michelle Au (D-Johns Creek) and Lynn Gladney (D-Augusta) as members of the study committee. Non-legislative members include Mr. Jeff Breedlove, Mr. Michael Persley, Dr. Armin Oskouei, Mr. Jesse Weathington and Mr. Adam Kaye.