“VETS is working to reduce barriers to research and expand access to care.”
AMBER CAPONE
CEO + CO-FOUNDER
MARCUS CAPONE
Chairman of the Board + CO-FOUNDER
A Call to Action For Veteran Health
Veterans face a unique and complex set of health challenges, including PTSD, TBI, substance use disorders, and chronic pain. At least 17 veterans are lost to suicide each day, with recent studies indicating the number may be far higher - up to 44 per day - and many others are unable to find care that fully addresses their needs.
At VETS, we are committed to creating actionable solutions. By advancing evidence-based therapies like psychedelic-assisted treatments and championing legislative change, we can improve access to care and transform outcomes for veterans nationwide.
Nonpartisan, fact-based, and focused on results.
Our Priorities for Expanding Access and Advancing Research
In order to make psychedelic-assisted therapies available to all veterans, restrictions to research must change, and access and affordability barriers must be addressed. State and federal funding is necessary for both.
The barriers to accessing these transformative therapies are significant. Stigma, regulation, and bureaucracy make progress difficult. Most scientific studies on these treatments are not supported by traditional biomedical research, and when they are, the veteran population is largely excluded.
NOTE: VETS does not advocate for decriminalization or legalization, but rather the monitored, clinical use of psychedelic therapy.
Legislative Goals
VETS’ 2025 legislative priorities are to reduce barriers to research, expand treatment options, and advocate for systemic changes that meet the needs of those who’ve served.
- Eliminate Research Barriers: Advocate for regulatory reforms to simplify approval processes, reduce research costs, and remove bureaucratic bottlenecks.
- Increase Funding for Veteran Focused Research: Secure state and federal appropriations to advance clinical trials targeting PTSD, TBI, and related conditions.
- Expand Regulated Therapeutic Access: Support legislation to establish safe, medically supervised access to psychedelic therapies with robust safeguards.
- Facilitate Veteran Participation in Research: Address financial and logistical barriers to ensure veterans and their families can participate in clinical trials.
- Coalition Building: Strengthen alliances through initiatives like the VALOR Coalition, uniting veteran organizations and advocates to drive systemic change.
Our Advocacy Efforts & Legislative Accomplishments:
On the State and Federal Level
California Legislature Assembly Bill 2841 (AB 2841)
Learn More ›Section 723 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2024
Learn More ›H.R. 3684: Douglas Mike Day Psychedelic Therapy to Save Lives Act of 2023
Learn More ›Texas House Bill 1802: Psychedelic Research for Veterans
Learn More ›
Veteran Suicide is a Public Health Crisis.
The transition from military service to civilian life presents unique challenges for many veterans, often leaving lasting impacts that affect their overall well-being. Alarmingly, veterans face a disproportionately high rate of suicide—an issue that profoundly affects families, communities, and the broader military network.
This crisis highlights the urgent need for innovative, evidence-based solutions that address the complex and interconnected health needs of veterans, ensuring they have the support necessary to thrive beyond their service.
Harm Reduction is Our Guiding Principle
At VETS, we emphasize that psychedelic compounds are powerful psychoactive substances, and not a means for recreation. They should always be administered under professional medical supervision and with properly informed consent.
Our mission is to demonstrate the efficacy of psychedelic-assisted therapies, while leading the way in best practices for safe and successful treatment. Responsible, nonpartisan policy change allows for better understanding of psychedelic modalities and can provide a framework around which to base future clinical access.
