Newsom signs veteran-backed bill to accelerate study of psychedelics for PTSD, mental health

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 1103, a veteran-backed law meant to fast-track approval for academic studies of psychedelic drugs aimed at conditions including PTSD and depression. The bill is promoted as a way to address the mental health and veteran suicide crisis by reducing delays that slow research. The legislation is sponsored by Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), and highlights ibogaine through VETS co-founder Marcus Capone, who credits ibogaine with improving his life. AB 1103 targets a California Research Advisory Panel process that adds an extra approval layer for studies involving Schedule 1 and 2 drugs. Under the bill, researchers whose FDA-approved studies are already compliant with California law can seek approval from a smaller group of panel members, rather than waiting for a full panel meeting. AB 1103 is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026, and is scheduled to remain in effect until Jan. 1, 2028.