Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR122

Introduced

6/6/25

Refer

6/6/25

Caption

Urging the Congress of the United States to expand post-traumatic stress disorder treatment for veterans and service members by authorizing stellate ganglion block therapy through passage of H.R. 1947, the Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy for PTSD Act.

Impact

If adopted, SR122 would have significant implications for state and federal mental health policies regarding veterans. It highlights the urgent need for innovative and effective treatments for a population that suffers from limited success with traditional therapies. The resolution brings attention to the pressing issue of veteran suicide, which is alarmingly high, and underscores the role that effective treatment options can play in preventing these tragedies. By supporting legislation that provides access to SGB therapy, the resolution aims to enhance the quality of care veterans receive.

Summary

SR122 is a Senate resolution aimed at urging the U.S. Congress to expand treatment options for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans and service members. The resolution specifically advocates for the authorization of stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy, a procedure that has shown effectiveness in alleviating PTSD symptoms such as anxiety and hyperarousal. By promoting H.R. 1947, known as the Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy for PTSD Act, the resolution seeks to enhance the mental health care of veterans, who often face high rates of PTSD and related issues.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR122 appears to be supportive among lawmakers advocating for veterans' mental health. Stakeholders, including the Pennsylvania National Guard Associations and the American Legion, back the resolution, indicating a collaborative effort across various organizations. However, there may also be concerns regarding the extent to which new treatments like SGB should be integrated into existing PTSD treatment protocols. Overall, the resolution reflects a united call for improvements in care for veterans.

Contention

While SR122 is predominantly favorable, discussions may arise regarding the need for extensive research and evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of stellate ganglion block therapy. As SGB is relatively new in the context of PTSD treatments, some members may question its integration into standard treatment frameworks without comprehensive studies. The resolution's push for federal authorization could also encounter legislative hurdles, especially if there are conflicting views on resource allocation and treatment approaches for veterans' mental health.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR311

Urging the Congress of the United States to pass H.R. 3023, the Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy for PTSD Act.

PA SR196

Directing the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to conduct a thorough and comprehensive study on the effects that post-traumatic stress disorder or injury, military sexual trauma and traumatic brain injury have on service members, veterans and their families who are directly or indirectly involved or implicated in any portion or component of the criminal justice system.

PA SR65

Petitioning the Congress of the United States to extend daylight saving time throughout the year across the country.

PA HR186

Ensuring greater access to sickle cell disease treatments and designating the Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive and coordinated data collection effort to better understand and quantify the scope and impact of sickle cell disease on patients, communities and states throughout the United States.

PA HR404

Urging the Congress of the United States to support the Major Richard Star Act (H.R. 1282) to allow all medically retired service members to receive full access to their much-deserved retirement pay and benefits.

PA HR271

Urging the Congress of the United States to adequately and immediately replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund.

PA HR181

Urging the Congress of the United States to expand Medicare to include coverage of hearing aids.

PA HR414

Designating May 7, 2024, as "Cancer Action Day" in Pennsylvania to identify the burden of cancer and urge the advancement of legislation in support of cancer prevention, detection and treatment throughout this Commonwealth.

PA HR146

Urging the Congress of the United States and the United States Department of Health and Human Services to eliminate the Skilled Nursing Facility Three-Day Rule for Medicare recipients.

PA HR509

Urging the Congress of the United States to expand TRICARE Reserve Select eligibility to include members of reserve components of the Armed Forces of the United States who are enrolled or eligible to enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.