North Michigan News

Today, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation aimed at increasing veterans' access to non-opioid pain medications. The bill, known as the NOPAIN for Veterans Act, was put forward by Congressman Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Congressman Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-03), Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), and Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-08).

The opioid epidemic has affected many demographics across the United States. In response, Congress passed the Non-Opioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation (NOPAIN) Act in 2022 to ensure seniors on Medicare have access to non-opioid pain management medications without additional costs.

To extend similar benefits to veterans, the NOPAIN for Veterans Act seeks to reform how the Department of Veterans Affairs offers and covers non-opioid pain management drugs. If these drugs are covered by Medicare, they would also be included under VA pharmacy benefits.

Congressman Bergman emphasized that "our Veterans deserve access to every effective treatment available - without red tape or delay." He added that this act is crucial for improving quality of life while reducing dependence on addictive medications.

Congressman Landsman stated that "our bipartisan bill is a commonsense step" toward making safer options more affordable and available to veterans. He highlighted its role in preventing addiction before it starts.

Congressman Van Orden acknowledged the VA's efforts in addressing opioid administration mismanagement and noted that "Veterans must have access to comprehensive medical treatment plans."

Congresswoman Sewell mentioned that this new act builds on previous progress made with the NOPAIN Act from 2022, which improved access for seniors. She stressed empowering Americans to manage their pain effectively without risking addiction.

Congressman Pappas pointed out that making non-opioid pain management more accessible is common sense for veterans' health and helps prevent addiction.

Lastly, Congressman Hamadeh expressed pride in cosponsoring the act and emphasized protecting fellow veterans with better healthcare options.