Key Provisions

At least five VA medical facilities will be designated as Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence based on geographic distribution and facility capabilities.

Facilities must demonstrate:

Affiliation with accredited medical and social work schools.
The ability to attract top medical researchers.
An advisory committee including veterans and medical experts
Capacity for data collection and national collaboration.

A specialized panel will review and assess facility proposals for scientific and clinical merit before designation.

The VA will submit an annual report to Congress summarizing key activities, findings, and recommendations to improve innovative therapy access.

$30 million is authorized annually for research, education, and operational support.
Additional funding will be allocated from existing VA medical services and research accounts.

The bill identifies specific treatments under the term innovative therapies, including:

MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine)
Psilocybin
Ibogaine
5-MeO-DMT (5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine)
Ketamine
Other therapies as designated by the Under Secretary for Health.

This legislation seeks to expand safe and affordable access to groundbreaking therapies for veterans struggling with mental health conditions. By establishing research-driven centers within the VA, the Act aims to improve treatment outcomes and overall well-being for veterans nationwide.

The bill will proceed through the legislative process, including committee review and potential amendments before being voted on in Congress. If passed, the VA will begin designating Centers of Excellence and implementing the outlined initiatives.For more information or to support this initiative, contact your congressional representatives or visit the VA website.