Massachusetts Governor Introduces Veteran-Focused Legislation Including Psychedelic Research

BOSTON — In a landmark move, Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey has filed a comprehensive legislative package aimed at enhancing benefits and services for the state’s military veterans. Dubbed the Act Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing Our Servicemembers and Veterans (HERO Act), the bill was introduced with Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll at the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services on November 9.

The Healey administration emphasizes that this initiative, the first of its kind in 20 years, will significantly benefit Massachusetts’ veteran population, including nearly 30,000 women and LGBTQ+ veterans. “Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for our country. This legislation is a critical step in ensuring that we support them in return,” stated Governor Healey.

One of the most notable aspects of the HERO Act is the establishment of a working group to investigate the health benefits of psychedelics, particularly as treatments for veterans dealing with service-related physical and mental health disorders.

Veteran service organizations have expressed strong support for the bill. Bill LeBeau, Adjutant for Massachusetts Veterans of Foreign Wars, noted, “Governor Healey and her team have shown a deep commitment to improving the lives of our veterans. This bill signifies a meaningful advancement in veteran support.”

The HERO Act goes beyond psychedelic research. It aims to expand behavioral and mental health treatments, enhance benefits for disabled veterans, and improve support for veteran-friendly employers. Notably, it seeks to update the definition of a veteran and expand the Veterans Equality Review Board’s scope. The legislation also addresses specific challenges faced by LGBTQ+ veterans, including a pilot program for couples denied IVF reimbursement and codification of medical and dental benefits.

Lieutenant Governor Driscoll underscored the inclusivity of the bill, stating, “By broadening benefits and promoting inclusivity, we’re not just expressing our gratitude to veterans but also addressing their evolving needs.”

The Role of Psychedelics in Mental Health

Recent studies, including those by Johns Hopkins, have revealed that psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy could significantly impact mental health conditions common among veterans. Psilocybin, in particular, has shown promise in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse disorders. The FDA is currently reviewing the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for serious mental health conditions.

This shift in perspective towards psychedelics has led several states, including Oregon and Colorado, to reconsider their stance on psychedelic drugs, primarily for therapeutic uses. Massachusetts is also experiencing a push towards psychedelics reform, evident in the collection of signatures for a ballot measure to legalize the possession and supervised use of psychedelics.

Looking Ahead

As the HERO Act marks a significant legislative step in supporting veterans, it also aligns with a broader, evolving dialogue on mental health and substance use. The incorporation of psychedelic research into veteran care suggests a progressive approach to addressing complex mental health issues that impact not only veterans but potentially the wider community.