ATLANTA, Ga. – Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) today announced that Representative Mark Newton (R-Augusta) has been named as chairman of the House Special Committee on Access to Quality Healthcare. The committee was previously chaired by Rep. Richard Smith who will be devoting his time to his new role as chairman of the House Rules Committee.
“This committee is doing important work examining the state’s regulatory role in health care and exploring how we can increase access to health care while decreasing costs,” said Speaker Ralston. “As a trusted leader in our House and a practicing physician, Rep. Newton is uniquely qualified to take on the task of leading this committee.”
“I am honored by the confidence and trust shown in being chosen to chair this important committee,” said Rep. Newton. “Lowering costs, empowering patients and improving outcomes are the overarching goals which this group has been tasked to achieve. While these are challenging goals, we will continue to work together wisely and tirelessly for Georgians in guiding policies that improve lives all across this state.”
Representative Newton serves as the Chief Deputy Whip of the Majority Caucus and represents the citizens of the 123rd House District, which includes portions of Augusta. A veteran of the U.S. Army Medical Corps, Rep. Newton is the founder and CEO of Med Now Urgent Care Centers with locations throughout the Greater Augusta and Columbia County areas. He is a licensed physician specializing in emergency medicine.
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