Alternative Therapies
Establish Support for Veterans Who Want to Utilize Alternative Therapies
IAVA is currently focused on establishing support for veterans who want to utilize medical cannabis.
Why alternative therapies?
Civilians and veterans should have the same standard of care.
For years, IAVA members have sounded off in support of researching medical cannabis for use in treating the wounds of war and legalizing medical cannabis. Veterans consistently and passionately have communicated that cannabis offers effective help in tackling some of the most pressing injuries faced when returning from war. Our national policies are outdated, research is lacking, and stigma persists. In response, IAVA members have set out to change the national conversation around cannabis and underscore the need for bipartisan, data-based, common-sense solutions that can bring relief to millions, save taxpayers billions and create thousands of jobs for veterans nationwide. America is entering a new era in the cannabis debate and IAVA will be leading it to ensure that veteran needs are protected, supported and elevated.

How can medical cannabis help?
Veterans have passionately stated that medical cannabis has helped them tackle some of the most pressing war injuries veterans face such as PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. VA must conduct research into the efficacy of medical cannabis as a treatment for veterans with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions. Alternative therapies can bring relief to millions, save taxpayers billions, and create thousands of jobs for veterans nationwide.

What do our members think?
In our latest member survey, over 80% of IAVA members supported legalization for medical use. Almost 90% supported researching cannabis for medicinal purposes.

What is IAVA doing about this issue?
IAVA is working with Legislators to ensure the health of servicemembers and veterans. Our recommendations for the 116th Congress are:
- Research Cannabis as a Treatment Option
- Destigmatize the Use of Medical Cannabis
- Drive the National Conversation on Cannabis to Underscore the Need for Bipartisan, Data-based, Common Sense Solutions
- Ensure Veterans Are Not Punished for Using Medical Cannabis Where Legal

Need Help?
IAVA’s QRF is here to help.
About QRF

IAVA's Big 6
As a direct result of our Annual Membership Survey, IAVA has focused on the six biggest issues facing veterans today. Learn more about our other issues.
Support Our Efforts
We can’t do this without your help. Tell your representatives how important it is to empower veterans who want to use medical cannabis.