Hamadeh Introduces Bill Requiring Pentagon Review Of Emerging PTSD Treatments For Veterans
By Ethan Faverino |
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.”
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, โWe 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 Trumpโs recent Executive Order, Right to Try, and FDA Expanded Access: helping our nationโs heroes find new hope when existing treatments have failed them.โ
Arizona is home to what researchers describe as the worldโs 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 Hamadehโs 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 yearโs National Defense Authorization Act.
It also aligns with President Trumpโs 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.