Georgia Senate backs opioid and health care proposals

ATLANTA (AP) A proposal to create an opioid study committee and crack down on scammers who prey on addicts has sailed through the Georgia Senate.

Senators on Wednesday voted 53-0 to pass Sen. Renee Unterman's measure aimed at combatting the opioid crisis. It now awaits House input.

The Buford Republican's bill would have a commission further study the epidemic and seek grant money to fund nonprofit recovery programs across Georgia.

The proposal increases penalties for health care providers that offer illegal kickbacks to ``patient brokers'' who lure addicts to unscrupulous treatment centers.

The Senate also quickly approved a bill to create a Health Coordination and Innovation Council. The group would examine how to improve health care in the state, especially in rural areas. Both bills are supported by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.