GA HR1159

Creates the Joint Study Committee on Risks Associated with Kratom, composed of 6 members: 3 House members appointed by the Speaker and 3 Senate members appointed by the President of the Senate, with one cochairperson designated from each chamber.

Directs the committee to study the use and risks of kratom and recommend any action or legislation deemed necessary, citing concerns that kratom has opioid-like effects and carries risks of abuse, addiction, and death according to FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb.

Notes that poison control center calls regarding kratom increased ten-fold from 2010 to 2015, and that kratom is already banned in five U.S. states (Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, and Wisconsin) as well as several countries.

Members receive allowances under Code Section 28-1-8 for up to 5 days unless additional days are authorized, funded from existing House and Senate appropriations.

The committee must file any approved report with the Clerk of the House and the Secretary of the Senate and stands abolished on December 1, 2018.