Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ-08) has introduced legislation directing the Department of Defense to provide Congress with a comprehensive review of emerging clinical research and service-related treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Supporters say the move could help expand future healthcare options for veterans and service members.
The Veterans and Service Members PTSD Emerging Treatment Review Act would require the Pentagon to assess emerging PTSD treatments and report its findings to Congress, providing lawmakers with updated information on investigational therapies and ongoing clinical research.
“Our service members and veterans deserve every opportunity to access the most effective treatments backed by rigorous scientific research,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “Far too many Americans continue to struggle with treatment-resistant PTSD, contributing to suicide, substance abuse, and challenges transitioning back to civilian life. This legislation ensures Congress and the Department of Defense have the data needed to evaluate emerging research and make informed decisions that prioritize military readiness, force health, and veteran care.”
Our servicemembers & veterans deserve every proven, science-backed treatment to beat PTSD,
Congressman Hamadeh's 𝘝𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘗𝘛𝘚𝘋 𝘌𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘙𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘈𝘤𝘵 gives Congress & the Department of War the data…
— Office of Congressman Abe Hamadeh (@RepAbeHamadeh) July 1, 2026
The legislation has received support from researchers involved in Arizona based clinical trials studying emerging PTSD treatments.
Dr. Sue Sisley, MD, Chief Medical Officer of the Scottsdale Research Institute said, “We appreciate Congressman Hamadeh and his team for this groundbreaking victory. His staff visited our Sonoran Research Institute Lab and saw firsthand what these FDA clinical trials mean for Veterans & First Responders, and what it could mean for transitioning service members in the future. This clinical trial exemplifies the promise behind President Trump’s recent Executive Order, Right to Try, and FDA Expanded Access: helping our nation’s heroes find new hope when existing treatments have failed them.”
Arizona is home to what researchers describe as the world’s first FDA- and DEA- approved clinical trial evaluating psilocybin-containing mushrooms in a structured group therapy setting for veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD.
The study is examining whether the investigational treatment may benefit individuals with treatment-resistant PTSD who have not responded to existing therapies.
According to Hamadeh’s office, PTSD continues to affect thousands of veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and first responders. While existing therapies have proven effective for many patients, treatment-resistant PTSD remains a significant challenge, affecting long-term health outcomes, family stability, and military readiness.
The legislation builds on bipartisan efforts in Congress after similar language was unanimously included in the House Armed Services Committee report accompanying this year’s National Defense Authorization Act.
It also aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order 14401 directing federal agencies to accelerate research and regulatory pathways for investigational treatments for serious mental illness.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce announced Monica Coury, vice president of external affairs at Arizona Complete Health, as the new chair of its board of directors.
Coury officially assumed the role during a ceremonial “passing of the gavel” at the Chamber’s June 26th board meeting, succeeding Ted Geisler, president and CEO of Arizona Public Service (APS), who served as board chair for the past two years.
Monica has been a valued voice on our board, and we’re excited to have her leadership as we continue advancing policies that matter to Arizona employers.
As board chair, Coury will lead the Arizona Chamber of Commerce’s governing board and help guide its efforts to advance policies aimed at strengthening Arizona’s economy, improving the state’s business climate, and promoting long-term economic growth.
“It is an incredible honor to serve as chair of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry,” stated Coury in a press release announcing her new role. “I want to thank my fellow board members for the confidence they’ve placed in me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the Chamber’s outstanding team.”
“The Chamber has long been one of Arizona’s most effective and respected advocates on behalf of the state’s job creators,” Coury added, “and I look forward to building on that legacy as we continue working to make Arizona the best place in the nation to live, work, and do business.”
Coury has served on the Chamber’s board for several years, previously chairing its Public Affairs Committee before serving as chair-elect.
In her role at Arizona Complete Health, she oversees external affairs for one of the state’s largest health plans and has worked on issues related to healthcare access, workforce development, and economic competitiveness.
Arizona Chamber President and CEO Danny Seiden said Coury’s experience and leadership make her well suited to lead the organizations board.
“Monica is an exceptional leader whose collaborative approach, strategic vision, and deep commitment to Arizona make her the ideal person to lead our board,” said Seiden. “She understands that a strong economy depends on smart public policy, and she has consistently brought thoughtful leadership and sound judgment to the Chamber. I look forward to working closely with Monica as we continue advancing policies that help Arizona employers create jobs, invest, and grow.”
Seiden also recognized Geisler’s service as chairman, crediting him with helping lead the organization through a period marked by legislative successes and continued organizational growth.
“Ted has been an outstanding chairman, a trusted partner, and a friend,” Seiden added. “His steady leadership, business acumen, and unwavering commitment to Arizona’s economic future have helped position the Chamber for continued success. We are grateful for his service and look forward to his continued counsel and involvement on our board.”
Along with Coury, the Chamber also announced its new slate of board officers, including Jimmy Lindbolm of Willmeng Construction as chair-elect, Don Isaacson of Isaacson Law Firm as vice-chair of audit and finance, and Angela Creedon of Intel as vice-chair of manufacturing
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) has introduced the Monitor Accountability Act in the U.S. Senate, serving as a companion measure to H.R. 8365, legislation previously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05).
The legislation seeks to establish new federal standards governing court-appointed monitors used in civil consent decrees involving state and local governments. These monitors are typically assigned to oversee reform efforts in areas such as law enforcement and public safety compliance.
Supporters of the bill point to long-running monitorships in jurisdictions such as Maricopa County, Arizona, and New Orleans, Louisiana, as examples of cases where oversight arrangements have extended for years and generated significant taxpayer costs.
According to figures cited by sponsors, the New Orleans Police Department consent decree lasted 13 years and cost an estimated $100 million before concluding, while the ongoing Maricopa County monitorship has reportedly exceeded $350 million in taxpayers expense and continues.
“I’m grateful for Senator Kennedy’s partnership in this fight to reinsert sorely needed congressional oversight over these out-of-control federal monitors,” stated Congressman Biggs. “The stories of Maricopa County and New Orleans are abusive and well-documented, showing how these monitors operate without oversight across America. As I have said repeatedly, the destructive effects these monitors have on government budgets and public safety necessitate congressional action. I hope the Senate quickly passes this bill and sends it to the White House to be enacted into law.”
U.S. Senator John Kennedy has introduced the Monitor Accountability Act as a companion bill to my legislation.
I’m grateful for Senator Kennedy’s partnership in this fight to reinsert sorely needed congressional oversight over these out-of-control monitors. pic.twitter.com/0bePhGAMx2
Senator Kennedy emphasized the need for accountability and cost controls in the system.
“Federal court monitors can serve an important purpose, but taxpayers should not have to fund open-ended monitorships that drag on for years without basic accountability,” said Senator Kennedy. “We basically let government contractors decide whether their own government contract keeps going. The Monitor Accountability Act would cap fees, limit terms and bring transparency to a system operating for far too long on autopilot.”
If enacted, the legislation would direct the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts and the Judicial Conference of the United States to implement standardized rules for appointing and managing federal monitors. These include:
Five-year term limits for monitors, with no reappointment under the same court order.
Restrictions on successive appointments, preventing the same individual or affiliated employer from continuing a monitorship.
Fee caps and transparency requirements, including annual public accounting of services and compensation.
Public notice and comment period before a monitor is appointed.
Compliance-based extensions, allowing continuation only if substantial and sustained compliance has not been achieved.
Judicial reassignment after six years in ongoing cases to prevent prolonged oversight by a single judge.
Retroactive application to monitorships exceeding six years, including potential replacement of monitors and judicial reassignment.
The bill also encourages the use of pro bono or reduced-rate services in monitor roles.
As the legislation moved through the House earlier this year, it received public support from several law enforcement leaders and organizations, including Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels, the Arizona Sheriffs’ Association, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, and the Arizona Police Association.
The bill notes that federal monitors are typically appointed in civil settlement agreements or consent decrees to oversee corrective reforms, often in response to findings of unconstitutional policing or systemic agency misconduct.
The legislation responds in part to prior federal guidance encouraging greater transparency, term limits, and cost accountability in monitor appointments.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
The U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed H.R. 7396, the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act, a bipartisan measure aimed at strengthening Small Business Administration (SBA) outreach and support for Tribal entrepreneurs across the United States.
The legislation, led by a bipartisan coalition in Congress, seeks to formally establish and codify the Office of Native American Affairs (ONAA) within the SBA by amending the Small Business Act.
The goal is to improve coordination, accountability, and targeted support for Native American and native Hawaiian business owners who often face structural barriers in accessing federal resources.
The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of lawmakers including Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ-02), alongside Rep. Shanice Davids (D-KS-03), Rep. Jake Ellzey (R-TX-06), and Rep. Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03). The measure passed the House with unanimous support after previously clearing the chamber in the last Congress with strong bipartisan backing before stalling in the Senate.
If enacted, the legislation would formally embed the ONAA within the Small Business Administration and assign its responsibility for expanding access to entrepreneurial development programs, contracting opportunities, and capital resources for Tribal communities.
This evening, the House unanimously passed the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act to strengthen @SBAgov outreach to Tribal entrepreneurs.
The office would also be tasked with improving coordination with other federal agencies and increasing education about available programs for Native entrepreneurs.
Tribal business owners, particularly those operating on reservations, often face unique challenges including complex tax structures, regulatory barriers, lending difficulties, and questions surrounding property rights.
Supporters of the legislation argue that these issues have been compounded by inconsistent outreach and limited access to federal small business programs.
By codifying the Office of Native America Affairs into federal law, the bill also strengthens congressional oversight by requiring annual reports to Congress detailing outreach efforts, consultations with Tribal governments, training initiatives, and the number of entrepreneurs served.
“I’m proud to be part of the bipartisan coalition working to improve and expand SBA outreach to Tribal communities. As the representative of over half of Arizona’s tribes, I’m focused on solutions to help expand economic growth throughout rural Arizona,” stated Rep. Crane. “I’m grateful to Rep. Davids for her leadership, as well as Reps. Ellzey and Morrison for their support of this important bill. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly take up and pass this measure.”
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
Arizona communities are preparing for one of the most widespread Independence Day celebrations in recent years as cities across the state host fireworks, drone shows, and family festivals in honor of America’s 250th year since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
From major metro hubs to rural towns, residents will gather July 3-4 for coordinated events that highlight both patriotic tradition and modern light displays.
West Valley Celebrations
In Avondale, “Light Up the Sky” returns on Saturday July 4, at 7602 Jimmie Johnson Dr. Gates open at 6 p.m., with fireworks launching at 8:25 p.m. Admission is free.
Buckeye will hosts its Independence Day Celebration, July 4, at Buckeye Airport from 6-9 p.m., culminating in an 8:30 p.m. fireworks show. Admission is free.
Goodyear’s “Star Spangled 4th” runs from 6-9 p.m. at Goodyear Ballpark, July 4, featuring a drone show at 8:45 p.m. Admission is free.
Peoria will host its All-American Festival at Peoria Sports Complex, July 4, from 5-9 p.m. Fireworks will follow the concert lineup. Free admission with VIP tickets available
Surprise will hold firework displays at Surprise Community Park and Mark Coronado Park beginning at 8:45 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the event is free.
Glendale kicks off Independence Day weekend early with “Firework Fest” on Friday, July 3 at Westgate Entertainment District from 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m.
Tolleson will hold its Fourth of July Celebration on Friday, July 3 at Tolleson Veterans Park from 4-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is Free
Central and East Valley
Phoenix hosts “Fabulous Phoenix 4th” at Steele Indian School Park from 6-10 p.m., featuring one of the largest free fireworks shows in the state. Fireworks show time TBD
Chandler presents “Chandler’s All-American Bash”, July 4, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park from 7-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 8:15 p.m. Admission is free.
Gilbert hosts its 4th of July Celebration at Gilbert Regional Park from 5-9:30 p.m., featuring fireworks and a drone show. Free admission with VIP tickets available.
Mesa will hold the Arizona Celebration of Freedom in downtown Mesa from 6-10 p.m., with fireworks and a drone show at 9:25 p.m.
Tempe hosts its Fourth of July Celebration at Tempe Diablo Stadium from 6-10 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled for 9 p.m. Admission is $2.50
Scottsdale will host its celebration at WestWorld from 5-9 p.m., on July 4, with fireworks starting at 9 p.m. Admission ranges from $25-$50
Queen Creek presents “Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms” from 2-10 p.m., featuring live entertainment and fireworks later in the evening. Admission ranges from $22.80 – $161.74.
Fountain Hills will host “Fourth at the Fountain”, July 4, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m with free admission.
Northern Arizona
Flagstaff will host a Fourth of July Drone Show at Foxglenn Park from 4-9 p.m., with the drone display beginning at 9 p.m. Admission is free
Cottonwood offers the “Fantastic Family Fourth of July” at Cottonwood Kids Park from 4-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $1
Wickenburg hosts its Independence Day Celebration at Sunset Park from 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Kingman holds an “Old Fashion 4th of July” morning celebration, July 4, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., with evening fireworks at 9 p.m. at 3333 Harrison Street. Admission is free
Southern and Western Arizona
Tucson hosts “Diamonds in the Sky: 4th of July Celebration”, July 4, at Kino Sports Complex from 5:30 -9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is a $1 donation or one canned food item.
Marana presents its Star Spangled Spectacular at Crossroads at Silverbell District Park from 5-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Casa Grande hosts its 4th of July Celebration at Paul Mason Sports Complex from 7-10 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Yuma presents the “4th of July Spectacular” at Desert Sun Stadium from 6-10 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Oro Valley hosts its July 4th Celebration at James D. Kriegh Park from 6-9:20 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free
Wellton will host a community Fourth of July Celebration at Butterfield Park. Fireworks timing will be announced. Admission is free.
Across Arizona, most Independence Day events remain free to the public, with select communities offering VIP seating or premium access options.
Organizers across the state encourage attendees to arrive early, plan for high temperatures, and check local city websites for parking updates and event advisories.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
