In an unexpected return to policy discussions in Austin, former Texas Governor Rick Perry is collaborating with Democratic State Representative Alex Dominguez of Brownsville to advocate for psychedelic drug therapy as a potential solution for veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Perry is endorsing Dominguez's proposed bill, House Bill 1802, which calls for a comprehensive clinical study on the use of psilocybin—the active compound in "magic mushrooms"—as a treatment for PTSD among veterans. Expressing optimism about the legislation, Perry stated, "To me, this may be one of the most hopeful pieces of legislation that the members of the Legislature have the opportunity to consider this session."
Although Perry has historically maintained an anti-drug stance and continues to oppose recreational legalization, his advocacy for veterans has led him to recognize the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs in providing relief for those who have exhausted conventional treatment options. Perry acknowledges instances of veterans seeking treatment abroad, emphasizing the importance of administering psychedelic therapy within a controlled clinical setting to save lives.
Joining Dominguez for a news conference at the state Capitol, Perry will share his support alongside veterans he has formed close connections with over the years, including retired Navy SEAL Morgan Luttrell and Dakota Meyer, a Marine veteran and Medal of Honor recipient.
Dominguez's bill proposes that the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) undertake a clinical study of psilocybin in collaboration with a health sciences university and a Veterans Affairs hospital. Additionally, the legislation calls for a literature review encompassing studies on psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine in the context of treating PTSD in veterans. The HHSC would be required to provide quarterly progress reports and deliver final findings to the governor, lieutenant governor, and House speaker by December 1, 2024.
While the bill has been referred to the House Public Health Committee, it has not yet undergone a hearing. Perry, acknowledging the potential impact of the governor, lieutenant governor, and House speaker in shaping the proposal's fate, has engaged with their offices. He is optimistic that Republicans can be reassured that the initiative is not about recreational drug use but rather a carefully administered, life-changing treatment for veterans.
Dominguez, noting bipartisan support for studying the issue, emphasizes the importance of approaching the matter scientifically, implementing a controlled process with safeguards to ensure efficacy without abuse. The collaborative effort between Perry and Dominguez highlights a unique convergence of bipartisan support for exploring innovative treatments for veterans grappling with mental health challenges. Another interesting article although potentially biased was from Texas Monthly here. The video below for the 2023 Psychedelic Science Conference in Denver had Rick Perry as a profound guest speaker which speaks to the times. We highly recommend exploring this News Nation article as well here.
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