Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB394

Introduced
1/17/23  
Refer
1/17/23  

Caption

Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act This bill prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from denying a veteran any VA benefit due to participation in a state-approved marijuana program. For veterans participating in these approved programs, the VA must ensure its health care providers (1) discuss marijuana use with such veterans and adjust treatment plans accordingly, and (2) record such use in the veterans' medical records. Under the bill, the VA shall authorize physicians and other VA health care providers to provide recommendations to veterans who are residents of states with approved programs.

Impact

If enacted, HB394 would significantly alter the current framework under which the VA operates with respect to cannabis use. The bill mandates that healthcare providers within the VA discuss marijuana use with veterans enrolled in treatment plans and make necessary adjustments to their medical care. Furthermore, it requires that any usage of marijuana be documented in veterans' medical records, thereby integrating this treatment option into their official healthcare plans. This change could lead to a more open and informed discourse around cannabis use in a clinical context, potentially improving health outcomes for veterans who seek relief from conditions like PTSD or chronic pain.

Summary

House Bill 394, known as the Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act, aims to protect the rights of veterans who participate in state-approved marijuana programs. The bill specifically prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from denying any benefits to veterans solely due to their involvement in these state-sanctioned cannabis initiatives. This legislation seeks to address the growing recognition of the potential benefits of marijuana for treating various health issues faced by veterans, acknowledging the need for a supportive approach to their healthcare options.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits outlined, there may be areas of contention surrounding HB394. Critics may argue about the implications of endorsing cannabis use within the VA system, particularly relating to federal laws that classify marijuana as a controlled substance. Concerns may also arise regarding the varying state laws around cannabis and how this federal bill intersects with those laws. As much as the bill advocates for veterans’ rights, discussions may include debates about the overall impact on medical practices and the perception of marijuana in healthcare settings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB966

Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act This bill prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from denying a veteran any VA benefit due to participation in a state-approved marijuana program. For veterans participating in these approved programs, the VA must ensure its health care providers (1) discuss marijuana use with such veterans and adjust treatment plans accordingly, and (2) record such use in the veterans' medical records. Under the bill, the VA shall authorize physicians and other VA health care providers to provide recommendations to veterans who are residents of states with approved programs.

US HB1384

Veterans Equal Access Act This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to authorize VA health care providers to (1) provide veterans with recommendations and opinions regarding participation in their state's marijuana programs, and (2) complete forms reflecting such recommendations and opinions.

US HB71

Veterans Health Care Freedom Act This bill requires the Center for Innovation for Care and Payment within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a three-year pilot program to improve the ability of veterans who are enrolled in the VA health care system to access hospital care, medical services, and extended care services through the covered care system by providing such veterans with the ability to choose health care providers. Under the bill, the covered care system includes VA medical facilities, health care providers participating in the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP), and eligible entities or providers that have entered into a Veterans Care Agreement. A veteran participating in the program may elect to receive care at any provider in the covered care system. The pilot program removes certain requirements (e.g., location of the veteran) to access care at VA and non-VA facilities. After four years, the bill permanently phases out the requirements for accessing care under the VCCP and Veterans Care Agreements and requires the VA to provide such care under the same conditions of the pilot program. Additionally, after four years, veterans may receive care at a VA medical facility regardless of whether the facility is in the same Veterans Integrated Service Network as the veteran.

US HB214

Veterans' True Choice Act of 2023 This bill allows covered veterans to receive coverage under TRICARE Select, a health care program of the Department of Defense (DOD). Veterans covered by this bill include those with service-connected disabilities, former prisoners of war, Purple Heart recipients, Medal of Honor recipients, those discharged from service due to disability, and those entitled to disability compensation. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) must reimburse DOD's costs of enrolling eligible veteran beneficiaries in the program. A covered veteran may not concurrently receive medical care from DOD and the VA.

US HB668

Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors ActThis bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a three-year pilot program to coordinate, navigate, and manage care and benefits for veterans who are enrolled in both the Medicare program and the VA health care system.

US HB1290

Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a three-year pilot program under which Vet Centers and VA medical facilities provide veterans who are experiencing mental health crises with referrals to approved non-VA mental health care providers.The VA must report on the implementation, outcomes, and effectiveness of the pilot program.

US HB2682

Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act.

US SB1204

Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act.

US HB226

Veterans Collaboration Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a two-year pilot program in states with the highest veteran populations to promote collaboration between the VA, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher learning. The VA shall emphasize collaboration with (1) veterans service organizations that provide personnel with appropriate credentials to assist veterans in filing disability compensation claims and appeals with the VA, and (2) educational institutions that provide veterans with pro bono legal assistance.

US HB105

TBI and PTSD Treatment Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to furnish hyperbaric oxygen therapy through a provider authorized by the Veterans Community Care Program to veterans who have a traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.