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Veterans Equal Access Act

12/29/2022, 5:33 PM

Summary of Bill HR 8197

The Veterans Equal Access Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 8197, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to allow veterans access to medical marijuana in states where it is legal.

Currently, veterans who receive medical care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are prohibited from using medical marijuana as a treatment option, even if it is legal in their state. This bill seeks to change that by allowing VA healthcare providers to discuss and recommend medical marijuana to their patients.

The bill aims to provide veterans with more treatment options for conditions such as chronic pain, PTSD, and other service-related injuries. Supporters of the bill argue that medical marijuana can be a safer and more effective alternative to traditional medications for some veterans. Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about the potential risks and lack of regulation surrounding medical marijuana use. They also argue that the VA should not be involved in recommending or providing access to a substance that is still illegal at the federal level. Overall, the Veterans Equal Access Act is a controversial piece of legislation that seeks to expand treatment options for veterans by allowing them access to medical marijuana. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its fate remains uncertain.

Congressional Summary of HR 8197

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.

Current Status of Bill HR 8197

Bill HR 8197 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 23, 2022. Bill HR 8197 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on June 23, 2022.  Bill HR 8197's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. as of June 23, 2022

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 8197

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
48
Democrat Cosponsors
36
Republican Cosponsors
12
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 8197

Primary Policy Focus

Armed Forces and National Security

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 8197

Veterans Equal Access Act
Veterans Equal Access Act
To authorize Department of Veterans Affairs health care providers to provide recommendations and opinions to veterans regarding participation in State marijuana programs.

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