GOP Senator Tim Sheehy introduces bill to expand psychedelics research and novel therapeutics planning for VA veteran mental health care

Psychedelics policy reform for U.S. veterans is advancing through a Senate bill sponsored by Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) to promote research and VA readiness for emerging mental health treatments. The proposal, called the “Veterans Health Administration Novel Therapeutics Preparedness Act,” would create a new Office of Novel Therapeutics within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and establish “Center of Excellence” sites across VA regional districts. It also calls for a Veteran Advisory Committee and annual reporting to Congress. The bill specifically frames VA as uniquely positioned to deliver integrated, veteran-centered care that includes medical and mental health services plus peer support, while coordinating with agencies such as HHS, FDA, CMS, DOD, and the DEA for regulatory and possible rescheduling considerations. It does not name specific priorities beyond referencing substances under FDA review, including psilocybin, ibogaine, and MDMA.