PHX Reporter

A bipartisan initiative to fund research into ibogaine as a treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has progressed in the Arizona House. The House Appropriations Committee approved HB2871 on Monday.

State Representative Justin Wilmeth sponsors the bill, which proposes allocating $5 million for clinical research into ibogaine, a plant-derived compound. This compound has shown potential in treating TBI and PTSD, conditions affecting many American veterans.

"Too many of our veterans are fighting a war they never left—one that rages inside their own minds and bodies," said Representative Wilmeth. "The treatments we have now for veterans struggling with PTSD and brain injuries aren’t working for far too many of them. Ibogaine offers a real chance to change that, and Arizona can be the tip of the spear in delivering a next-generation solution that finally gives them the help they deserve."

HB2871 instructs the Arizona Department of Health Services to grant funds to a research institution specializing in neurological studies. This ensures a certified clinical study of ibogaine's effects on TBI and PTSD is conducted safely. The bill also provides funding stability by exempting the appropriation from lapsing.

Ibogaine has gained attention for its potential to reduce PTSD symptoms and repair neurological damage. Veterans like Texas Congressman Morgan Luttrell and retired SEAL Marcus Luttrell have credited ibogaine with aiding their recovery from combat's physical and mental toll.

Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema testified in support of the bill, highlighting the need for advancing ibogaine research.

"Current treatments for PTSD and traumatic brain injury aren’t cutting it," former Senator Sinema said. "We owe it to our veterans to find better solutions. Ibogaine has shown promise not just in treating PTSD, but in repairing brain injuries that were once thought to be permanent. Arizona is uniquely positioned to lead this effort, and I’m committed to helping raise the private funding necessary to make it happen."

Sinema pledged to raise $5 million in private funds to match the state's investment, ensuring progress on the study.

"We need to act—not just talk," Representative Wilmeth added. "Our military heroes risk everything for this country, and we can’t let outdated regulations or bureaucratic red tape stand in the way of a treatment that could help them recover. If ibogaine has the potential to revolutionize care for these conditions, Arizona should be at the forefront of proving it."

HB2871 will now proceed to the full House for consideration.

Justin Wilmeth is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 2 in North Phoenix.

Information from this article can be found here.