Bill > HR157

This resolution urges the United States Congress to pass H.R. 1947 (the Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy for PTSD Act) or similar legislation to provide stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy for veterans and military members with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The resolution highlights the significant impact of PTSD on veterans, noting that 23% of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans, 12% of Gulf War veterans, and 15% of Vietnam veterans are diagnosed with PTSD annually, and only 40% find relief through current treatments. The document emphasizes the critical nature of the issue by pointing out that untreated PTSD is correlated with suicide risk, contributing to 20 veteran suicides daily. SGB is described as a low-risk medical procedure performed since the 1920s that involves injecting an anesthetic agent into nerves in the neck to alleviate PTSD symptoms like hyperarousal, exaggerated startle responses, and anxiety. The resolution is supported by organizations including the Pennsylvania National Guard Associations and the American Legion, and it calls for transmitting copies of the resolution to the President, Congressional leadership, and Pennsylvania's congressional representatives.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=157