Newsom Signs Bill to Fast-Track Psychedelic Research for Veterans’ Mental Health

Governor Gavin Newsom has officially enacted Assembly Bill 1103, a significant step aimed at accelerating research into psychedelic substances in California for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. This initiative has garnered support from veterans who advocate for the life-saving potential of these therapies.

A recent law change makes it easier to get approvals for research on Schedule 1 and 2 substances, like ibogaine, MDMA, and psilocybin, which the federal government currently says have no medical use. The focus is on California's Research Advisory Panel, which is known for its history of postponing studies due to bureaucratic hurdles.

“This is a crucial turning point for science, mental health, and every veteran who has been waiting far too long for improved treatment options,” stated Amber Capone, co-founder and CEO of Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), a nonprofit that backed the legislation.

With the implementation of AB 1103, researchers now have the opportunity to expedite the approval of their proposals. They can seek the endorsement of a select group of advisory panel members within days, eliminating the need to wait for full panel meetings. The legislation will be implemented on January 1, 2026, and will stay in effect until January 1, 2028, with an option for extension if it demonstrates success.

Marcus Capone, co-founder of VETS and a former Navy SEAL, shared how psychedelic therapy transformed his life following years of battling depression and trauma. “Following 13 years of service as a Navy SEAL and numerous deployments, I explored every traditional treatment option—none were effective for me,” he stated. “Ibogaine restored my life.”

Each year, over 6,000 veterans take their lives. This figure surpasses the average daily combat fatalities from the Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan wars combined, as reported by the Department of Veterans Affairs. A growing number of veterans are exploring alternative therapies, such as psychedelics, to cope with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries.

Last year, it became clear that there were significant delays in the approval process for psychedelic research, highlighted by California’s advisory panel not convening for almost a year due to disagreements regarding open-meeting requirements. AB 1103 seeks to eliminate that barrier and facilitate the faster progression of federally approved studies.

Initial findings indicate considerable potential. A recent study from Stanford involving 30 special forces veterans who received ibogaine treatment revealed significant decreases in PTSD symptoms by an average of 88%, along with reductions of 87% in depression and 81% in anxiety. In recent developments, clinical trials involving MDMA have shown promising outcomes for individuals with PTSD. States like Colorado and Oregon have also taken action to legalize psilocybin for controlled medicinal uses.

VETS has provided support for over 1,000 veterans receiving treatment at psychedelic therapy clinics in Mexico and remains committed to advocating for changes in federal policy. The organization has recently backed a Texas law that establishes a $50 million fund dedicated to clinical studies on ibogaine.

Advocates believe that California's recent legislation might set a precedent for other states across the nation. “AB 1103 will speed up the research necessary to change care,” Amber Capone stated, “not only for veterans but for all Californians impacted by trauma, addiction, and depression.” x