New MilConVA provisions mark a bipartisan leap forward for access to alternative cannabis therapies for America’s veterans
In a historic move applauded by advocates and veterans alike, the U.S. House of Representatives has approved amendments to the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilConVA) appropriations bill, allowing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doctors to recommend medical cannabis and support research into psychedelic therapies. The amendments passed by voice vote reflect a growing bipartisan consensus around expanding treatment options for veterans facing PTSD, chronic pain, and substance use disorders.
Championed by Congressional Cannabis Caucus co-chairs Reps. Brian Mast (R-FL) and Dave Joyce (R-OH), along with Reps. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Jack Bergman (R-MI), these provisions represent a tangible step toward integrating non-traditional therapies into veterans’ care plans. They also underscore Congress’s increasing acknowledgment of the limitations of conventional treatment paths and the urgent need for reform.
Veterans gain long-awaited access to state medical cannabis programs
The amendment backed by Mast and Joyce strikes at the heart of VA Health Directive 1315, which currently prohibits VA doctors from recommending or assisting veterans in accessing state-approved medical cannabis programs. This restriction has long been a barrier for veterans in legal cannabis states, forcing them to seek guidance outside their VA networks.
Mast, a decorated Army veteran, shared his own experience using conventional medication after sustaining injuries in combat, describing the emotional and mental toll these pharmaceuticals often exact. “Veterans need to have options outside of these narcotics,” he said on the House floor. “They need to be able to talk openly with their VA physicians about cannabis if it’s available in their state.”
If enacted into law, this amendment would finally empower VA physicians to provide holistic, patient-centered care that respects the legal status of cannabis at the state level and the unique needs of their patients.
Psychedelics research provision signals a proactive shift in mental health care
Equally groundbreaking is the psychedelics research amendment, introduced by Correa and Bergman, which instructs the VA to prepare its infrastructure for the eventual use of FDA-approved psychedelic therapies. With promising clinical trials pointing to the efficacy of substances like MDMA and psilocybin in treating PTSD and substance use disorders, the amendment aims to ensure the VA doesn’t lag behind the science.
“This amendment sends a clear message to the VA: Don’t just study—prepare,” said Bergman. “We owe our veterans more than research. We owe them implementation.”
The measure calls for an evaluation of the healthcare system’s readiness to deliver these complex therapies, including provider training, safety protocols, and pilot programs to guide future implementation.
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