H.R.2623 - Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2623, the Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code. The amendment would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to designate specific VA medical facilities as innovative therapies centers of excellence. These centers would focus on researching and providing innovative therapies for conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorder.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to the establishment of at least five innovative therapies centers within the VA system. These centers would be responsible for conducting research, providing treatment, and developing best practices for innovative therapies. The bill also mandates annual reports on the centers' activities and authorizes $30 million in appropriations for their support each fiscal year.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to cutting-edge treatments for veterans suffering from mental health conditions and chronic pain.
- Advancement of medical knowledge and development of new therapies through dedicated research centers.
- Enhanced coordination and collaboration among VA facilities in the delivery of innovative therapies.
- Creation of a national repository for data on health services related to innovative therapies, facilitating better understanding and treatment.
- Potential for improved quality of life and reduced suffering for veterans.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill's effectiveness depends on the availability of appropriations, which may fluctuate.
- The designation process could be subject to political influence or bureaucratic delays.
- The focus on specific therapies might divert resources from other important areas of veterans' healthcare.
- The definition of 'innovative therapy' is subject to change by the Under Secretary, potentially leading to inconsistent application.
- There is a risk that the centers may not be geographically distributed equitably, limiting access for some veterans.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of veterans. Specifically, the enumerated power to provide for the common defense and general welfare (Article I, Section 8) can be interpreted to include providing healthcare services to veterans. The establishment and operation of these centers would fall under Congress's power to legislate for the armed forces and veterans. No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).