Virginia panel backs measure to align state drug scheduling with federal approvals for new therapies

House Bill 13 47 was presented as a mechanism to shorten the lag between federal approvals and state scheduling so that Virginians can access newly approved medical therapies without unnecessary delay.

Delegate Cohen (patron) told the subcommittee that when the FDA approves a new treatment and the DEA reschedules it, Virginia’s Board of Pharmacy must take action to allow clinical access; HB 13 47 would streamline that process. During questioning, Caroline Turin, executive director of the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, confirmed the Board already has authority to place substances on the state schedule following federal action.

Industry and clinicians offered testimony in support. Nicole Lauter (Compass Pathways) said the organization supplied written letters from veterans and patients describing life‑changing benefits. Megan Vaughn, a certified brain‑injury specialist, described clinical observations from veterans participating in psychedelic‑assisted therapy and urged the committee to consider expanded medical options for treatment‑resistant depression and PTSD.

Opponents in the hearing were limited; delegates raised questions about safety, misuse, and how medications would be controlled and dispensed. The sponsor and witnesses emphasized that therapies would be delivered under medical supervision and dispensed by pharmacists.

The subcommittee moved to report HB 13 47 and the clerk recorded a vote of 9 to 1 in favor of reporting the bill.