Introduction of the VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I have met with multiple veterans in my congressional district who attest to the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis in managing their pain.

According to the American Legion, a significant number of veterans across the country--not just in my district--are currently using medical cannabis as an alternative treatment. With so many veterans using cannabis for therapeutic purposes, it is important that physicians have the information and research necessary to fully advice on the potential impacts of medical cannabis usage on post-traumatic stress and chronic pain. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is uniquely positioned to pursue that vital research.

To that end, I am introducing the bipartisan VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act, which requires VA to conduct clinical research on the safety and effectiveness of medical cannabis, in varying forms and delivery methods, for treating veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and veterans with chronic pain. The legislation requires VA to submit annual reports to Congress on the implementation of this bill for five years. The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act is a pragmatic and sensible approach to the need for additional research and could potentially save veterans' lives.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source