Peach Tree Times

State Representative Michelle Au (D-Johns Creek) has been appointed by Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) to the House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management.

“As an anesthesiologist and a legislator, I’m honored to be selected by Speaker Burns to sit on the House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management,” said Rep. Au. “As healthcare providers, my colleagues and I work on the frontlines of the national opioid epidemic, and it is incumbent upon policymakers to consider innovative, proven and compassionate therapies to treat acute and chronic pain while mitigating risk. This is precisely the type of work I’ve been trained to do, and I’m honored to join my colleagues on this study committee as we get to work for our state and our patients.”

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. The study committee will explore methods to increase awareness of non-opioid alternatives, including non-opioid pharmacologic treatments, through educational programs for healthcare providers. The committee aims to foster collaboration and integrated care among all healthcare providers involved in pain management. Additionally, the committee may propose legislative recommendations before the 2025 legislative session.

Speaker Burns also appointed several other members: State Representatives Katie Dempsey (R-Rome), Butch Parrish (R-Swainsboro), Sharon Cooper (R-Marietta), Lee Hawkins (R-Gainesville), Lynn Gladney (D-Augusta) and Mark Newton (R-Augusta). Mr. Jeff Breedlove, Mr. Michael Persley, Dr. Armin Oskouei, Mr. Jesse Weathington and Mr. Adam Kaye will serve as non-legislative members.

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