Expanding Veterans’ Access to Emerging Treatments Act

This bill mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish an investigational research and extended access treatment program within 90 days of enactment. The program aims to address urgent unmet medical needs among veterans suffering from conditions such as chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance use disorders . It will explore the use of innovative treatments and emerging therapies , specifically listing substances like psilocybin, ketamine, and ibogaine, as well as investigational pharmaceutical candidates and medical devices. The VA may conduct clinical trials with veterans as participants and develop compassionate or extended access protocols to facilitate consideration and access to these therapies. The Secretary must establish a process for veterans to participate in these trials or access treatments, consistent with federal law governing investigational products and controlled substances. Furthermore, the bill requires a report within one year detailing designated clinics, expected participation, and findings, with the program subject to review and potential extension or termination after two years.