H.R. 1384: Veterans Equal Access Act

The Veterans Equal Access Act aims to allow health care providers working for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to give advice and opinions to veterans about participating in state marijuana programs. Here are the primary components of the bill:

Key Provisions

• Authorization to Provide Recommendations: The bill mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs permit VA health care providers, such as doctors and other medical professionals, to make recommendations about whether veterans should participate in state marijuana programs.
• Completion of Forms: VA healthcare providers will also be responsible for completing the necessary forms that detail their recommendations and opinions regarding veterans' involvement in these programs.
• Definition of State: The term "State" in this bill includes not only the individual states of the U.S. but also the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. territories, and federally recognized Indian Tribes.

Purpose of the Bill

The bill is intended to provide veterans with more informed choices about their health care options, especially in states where marijuana is legalized for medical use. By allowing VA providers to engage with veterans on this topic, it aims to bridge a gap between veterans’ healthcare and state laws regarding marijuana access.

Impact Areas

• Veterans' Access to Medical Recommendations: The bill could enhance veterans' access to medical professionals who can advise them on participating in state-regulated marijuana programs.
• Healthcare Providers' Role: VA healthcare providers will be able to play a more active role in guiding veterans through state marijuana laws and how those laws may pertain to their treatment options.

Implementation

If enacted, the VA would need to create guidelines for how providers can appropriately give recommendations while ensuring compliance with both federal and state laws regarding marijuana use.

Relevant Companies

• CGC (Canopy Growth Corporation): A cannabis company that could see an increase in demand for its products if more veterans participate in state marijuana programs.
• CRON (Cronos Group Inc.): This company could potentially benefit from increased interest and sales of marijuana products aimed at veterans.
• ACB (Aurora Cannabis Inc.): As a cannabis producer, Aurora could be affected by an increase in veteran engagement in state marijuana programs.