Bill > HB4293

This bill, known as the Veterans Mental Health Innovation Act, authorizes certain entities in Oklahoma, such as universities or research facilities partnered with universities, to conduct scientific research and clinical trials on ibogaine, a substance derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant, for the treatment of specific medical conditions in individuals aged 18 and older. These conditions include posttraumatic stress disorder, treatment-resistant depression and anxiety, traumatic brain injury, early-stage dementia, palliative and end-of-life care, opioid use disorder, and moderate to severe chronic pain. To conduct this research, eligible entities must register with the State Department of Health and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry, paying nonrefundable fees, and subsequently register annually with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control. The bill outlines requirements for the research itself, including studying ibogaine's effectiveness and safety, reviewing existing literature, and examining its cultivation and processing. It also mandates written certifications for clinical trial participants, specifies the duration of registrations, and requires notification of any facility location changes. Importantly, the bill provides immunity from arrest, prosecution, or penalties for researchers and patients who comply with the provisions, and establishes an affirmative defense for individuals possessing ibogaine if they can demonstrate a qualifying medical condition. Researching entities are required to submit a comprehensive report on their findings by December 1, 2029, and all protected health information collected must be kept confidential and exempt from public records laws. The bill also directs relevant state agencies to create rules to implement this program and includes provisions for the future prescription and supervised administration of ibogaine by licensed physicians if it is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for medical treatment.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb4293&Session=2600