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WASHINGTON – Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) and Congressman Morgan McGarvey (D-KY) have taken the initiative to advocate for the implementation of psychedelic MDMA therapy for veterans within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) should it be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“The effects of emerging therapies for our veterans have been groundbreaking, and I’m proud to be a leader on pushing forward this innovative tool into the proverbial toolbox, especially while moving away from opioids,” said Congressman Luttrell.
In a joint effort, Congressman McGarvey added, “VA is the leader in mental health care for veterans, and its providers’ specialized knowledge in treating issues such as combat trauma and military sexual trauma is unmatched by any other healthcare system in this country. We want to be prepared to support the VA in leading the nation through expanded research and clinical implementation of this novel care model, ensuring veterans receive access to the highest quality mental health care available.”
Congressman Luttrell recently praised the Department of Veterans Affairs for seeking proposals to research the use of psychedelic therapies in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other combat-related injuries.
Additionally, Luttrell's efforts have been reflected in the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), where provisions were made to fund and authorize clinical research into emerging therapies for combat-related injuries. Luttrell himself has personal experience with psychedelic therapies in treating a TBI.
The letter to Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health Shereef Elnahal is a significant step towards ensuring that the VA is prepared to provide cutting-edge mental health care options for veterans if FDA approval for psychedelic MDMA therapy is granted.