Veterans Equal Access Act

# Veterans Equal Access Act Summary **What It Would Do** If passed, this bill would allow Veterans Affairs (VA) doctors and healthcare providers to discuss and recommend state-approved marijuana programs to veterans, and to complete official paperwork supporting those recommendations. Currently, federal law classifies marijuana as a controlled substance, which restricts VA providers from making such recommendations even in states where marijuana is legal. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects veterans receiving care through the VA healthcare system and VA medical providers. It would also impact states that have legalized marijuana, as it would align federal VA policy with state laws in those jurisdictions. **Key Point** The bill essentially aims to give VA doctors the same ability that other healthcare providers in legal marijuana states have—to discuss and document cannabis treatment options for veterans.

This could help veterans access treatment options that may be legal in their state but previously unavailable through VA channels. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote.