Peach Tree Times

State Representative Sharon Cooper (R-Marietta), chair of the House Committee on Public Health, was recently selected by Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) to serve on the House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management.

“The pain management industry in Georgia is evolving to meet the critical need for effective, non-opioid alternatives in pain treatment,” said Chair Cooper. “Raising awareness about non-opioid pharmacologic treatments is essential in addressing the opioid crisis and providing safer options for patients. I am grateful to Speaker Burns for selecting me to serve on this study committee. I am confident we can make significant strides in transforming pain management in Georgia, prioritizing patient safety and improving the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain.”

The House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management was formed following the adoption of House Resolution 1360 during the 2024 legislative session. This committee will conduct an in-depth evaluation of Georgia’s pain management industry, with a focus on raising awareness about non-opioid alternatives, including non-opioid pharmacologic treatments. Prioritizing educational programs for healthcare providers and fostering enhanced collaboration among all caregivers involved in pain treatment are key objectives. The committee’s findings will be submitted as proposed legislation in the upcoming 2025 legislative session.

Speaker Burns also appointed the following study committee members: State Representatives Katie Dempsey (R-Rome), Butch Parrish (R-Swainsboro), Lee Hawkins (R-Gainesville), Mark Newton (R-Augusta), Michelle Au (D-Johns Creek) and Lynn Gladney (D-Augusta). Mr. Jeff Breedlove, Mr. Michael Persley, Dr. Armin Oskouei, Mr. Jesse Weathington and Mr. Adam Kaye will serve as the non-legislative members.