Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act
Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act
Plain Language Summary
# Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act - Bill Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would allow veterans to participate in state-approved marijuana programs without losing their VA benefits. Currently, the VA can deny benefits to veterans based on cannabis use, even in states where it's legal. The bill would change this policy and require VA doctors to discuss marijuana use with veterans, adjust treatment plans if needed, and document cannabis use in medical records. It would also permit VA doctors to recommend marijuana to veterans in states where it's approved. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily affects veterans who live in states with legal marijuana programs and VA healthcare providers who work with these veterans.
It could also impact the VA's overall policies on substance use and medical treatment. **Current status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative W. Gregory Steebe (R-FL) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. No action has been taken beyond the initial introduction.
CRS Official Summary
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.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.