This bill requires the Executive Office of Veterans Services to submit a report detailing the findings and recommendations of a working group that reviewed alternative therapies for veterans' mental health. The report will specifically address psychedelic-based treatments, such as MDMA, which have recently received Breakthrough Therapy designation for mental health conditions. By placing this report on file, the legislation ensures that the state's assessment of these emerging options is formally recorded without mandating immediate implementation or funding changes.
Report of the Executive Office of Veterans Services (pursuant to Section 150 of Chapter 178 of the Acts of 2024) submitting its Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group report
By Representative Tarsky of Needham, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Joshua Tarsky for legislation to authorize the establishment of a veterans’ suicide mortality review and prevention council within the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services. Veterans and Federal Affairs.
By Representative Tarsky of Needham, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Joshua Tarsky for legislation to authorize the establishment of a veterans’ suicide mortality review and prevention council within the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services. Veterans and Federal Affairs.
This bill allows limited possession and transfer of psilocybin for specific groups: U.S. veterans, current/former law enforcement officers, and individuals with medically diagnosed qualifying conditions (like PTSD, based on clinical studies), provided they have no disqualifying conditions (e.g., schizophrenia). It permits up to 2 grams of psilocybin for personal use and up to 50 grams of dried mushrooms for non-commercial transfer, but explicitly prohibits sales, medical use authorization, or driving under its influence. The bill requires public health officials to publish annual lists of qualifying/disqualifying conditions with supporting studies, while stressing the state does not endorse psilocybin as a treatment. It expires if psilocybin is classified as a Schedule II drug under federal law.
This bill provides Kristen Arakelian, the surviving beneficiary of former State Police Sergeant Brandon Arakelian, a lifetime monthly retirement allowance. The allowance equals what Brandon would have received if he had been granted an accidental disability retirement for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on June 4, 2021, the date of his retirement. The payment starts from that date, minus any amounts already paid through his superannuation pension, and is based on his death certificate listing suicide and PTSD as contributing factors. It directly affects Kristen Arakelian as the designated beneficiary under this specific provision.
HD 3545 establishes a 19-member commission within Massachusetts' Executive Office of Health and Human Services to address PTSD. The commission, including experts, veterans' groups, healthcare providers, and advocacy organizations, will research PTSD causes (specifically pandemic-related cases), monitor care access, and develop annual strategic plans to improve diagnosis, treatment, and public awareness. Key provisions require the commission to publish yearly reports on research advances, care access, and progress on its strategic plan to the Governor and legislature. This bill directly affects Massachusetts residents with PTSD by creating a structured effort to evaluate and enhance care systems for the condition.
By Representative McGonagle of Everett, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2909) of Joseph W. McGonagle, Jr., and others relative to a post-traumatic stress disorder presumption for certain retirement benefits. Public Service.
By Mr. Brady, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1788) of Michael D. Brady, Marcus S. Vaughn, Steven George Xiarhos, Paul K. Frost and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to PTSD and accidental disability retirement. Public Service.
By Mr. DiDomenico, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1821) of Sal N. DiDomenico, Marcus S. Vaughn, Steven George Xiarhos, Paul K. Frost and other members of the General Court for legislation relative to the disability or death caused by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Public Service.
