Jack Bergman

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include in the Record an updated open letter from myself and Congressman Correa. the founders of the PATH Caucus, to ensure stakeholders have a voice in crafting the rules and regulations surrounding psychedelic assisted treatments. This is an updated version of the letter from my previous submission to the Record on August 9, 2024. It serves to extend our requested deadline for responses to February 28, 2025. Dear Commenter: In 2022, a new Congressional caucus was created to raise awareness among federal lawmakers about the therapeutic potential of psychedelic and entactogenic drugs to treat several mental health conditions that were refractory to contemporary evidence-based therapies. The Congressional Psychedelics Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus aimed to accelerate and support clinical research in the use of these novel substances, specifically psilocybin and 3,4- methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). To better inform Congressional members, the bipartisan PATH Caucus is seeking input on how to implement programs and policies that address the range of complex issues with potential novel therapies that may use a psychedelic or entactogenic drug in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. To gain a more complete understanding of the issues associated with use of these substances, the PATH Caucus believes that taking an inclusive, intentional, and reasoned approach to gathering input from the public may engender valuable insights that can more accurately and comprehensively characterize how different modalities incorporate the use of these substances while also ensuring responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical use. We seek information from the general public, those who have received psychedelic-assisted therapies as an intervention, interested stakeholders, and those individuals and entities working within the bio-psycho-social-spiritual behavioral health ecosystem (e.g., palliative care, addiction services), which stresses a holistic system of care comprised of clinical providers, counseling, and peer support (Courtney et al., 2023; D'Souza, 2007; Urutia et al., 2023). It will be essential to receive input from people and organizations with specialized experience in implementing therapies where psychedelic or entactogenic drug substances are administered, such as in clinical research protocols (e.g., depression, palliative care, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)), or experience in training others for such therapies. As a part of the PATH Caucus information gathering effort, we acknowledge the significant anthropological role of certain psychedelic substances such as ayahuasca, peyote, and Psilocybe mushrooms. Some indigenous peoples of the Americas have extensive traditions dating back hundreds to thousands of years, where they incorporated these substances into spiritual ceremonial or ritual healing practices. The PATH Caucus believes that respectful, inclusive, cultural knowledge sharing from these communities may provide substantial insights, further informing our overall understanding, and we welcome their input. In medications derived from psychedelic or entactogenic drug substances are ultimately approved for therapeutic indications by the FDA, it is important for States to understand the risk mitigations frameworks FDA has established and develop ways to make sure they are supported. Aspects of real-world risk reduction and mitigation frameworks may include, but are not limited to, providing comprehensive transparent public education, implementing substance misuse prevention programs, minimizing the potential for adverse reactions, and developing implementable risk mitigation, safety, and ethical monitoring strategies. Moreover, it will be vital to consider how Congress can best support states in developing and adopting scalable infrastructures and sustainable service delivery systems that ensure proper accountability and monitoring, as well as facilitate access and equity in utilization, with a particular focus on communities that may be at risk for experiencing inequities in care resulting in disparate health outcomes (e.g., veterans, the uninsured, those who are experiencing homelessness, people with lower incomes, and individuals living with mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders; Ortiz et al., 2022). In addition, when federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs make these products available, we need to be sure there is sufficient infrastructure to ensure patient safety. All of these components, when collectively addressed, may contribute to more responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical use of psychedelic and entactogenic derived substances in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. The PATH Caucus seeks input that can inform Congress so any potential future appropriations will support states collectively addressing the relevant issues and support necessary federal initiatives such as research, implementation and FDA regulation. Congress believes that by listening and learning from the broader ecosystem, staying abreast of potential innovative evidence-based therapies that may treat individuals with behavioral health disorders refractory to current treatment modalities, and simultaneously undertaking proactive measures for developing real-world risk reduction and mitigation frameworks, will help protect public health and safety. Current State of Psychedelic and Entactogenic Clinical Research Clinical data continue to be collected regarding the safety profiles and potential benefits from therapies that use psychedelic or entactogenic drug substances across a variety of diagnoses such as major depressive disorder (MDD), treatment resistant depression (TRD), demoralization, PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and substance use disorders, in conjunction with appropriate supervision and support from qualified mental health professionals (Belouin et al., 2022; Carhart-Harris et al., 2021; Davis et al., 2021; Griffiths et al., 2016; Jerome et al., 2020; Mitchell et al., 2021; Ross et al., 2016; Siegel et al., 2021; Xi et al., 2023). Additionally, FDA has granted requests for Breakthrough Therapy designation to specific development programs involving MDMA for the treatment of PTSD (Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies, 2017), psilocybin for TRD (COMPASS Pathways, 2018; Goodwin, G.M.. et al. 2022) and MDD (Khan, 2019; Raison et al., 2023), CYB003 for MDD (Cybin, 2024), and MM120 (lysergide d-tartrate) for GAD (MindMed, 2024). The Breakthrough Therapy designation process facilitates and expedites the development and review of certain new drugs that have the potential to address unmet medical needs. This designation is available for drugs that are intended to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition and where preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the drug may demonstrate substantial improvement over available treatments on clinically significant endpoint(s) (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2022). It should be noted that a Breakthrough Therapy designation does not mean that the FDA has made a safety or efficacy determination for a drug, and the Breakthrough Therapy designation is not a substitute for marketing approval. Currently, FDA has not approved any drug containing MDMA, psilocybin, psilocybin analogs, or LSD or other psychedelics or entactogens as being safe and effective for any therapeutic indication(s). Acknowledging the Need to Address Complex Issues Use of these substances is not without risk. A psychedelic (e.g, psilocybin) or entactogenic (e.g., MDMA) drug can temporarily alter a person's mood, thoughts, and perceptions, and lead to heightened suggestibility, anxiety/panic, and/or paranoia, among other outcomes. For psychedelics, a participant can experience vast changes in their perceptions of reality, including time and space. Moreover, an individual can become extremely sensitive to internal and external stimuli and altered in their cognitive functioning and visuoperceptual skills. Knowing these realities, any therapy that uses psilocybin or MDMA, for example, should involve thorough participant screening, education, and preparation, supportive settings, and close supervision by credentialed and qualified medical and mental health professionals to maximize safety and promote potential therapeutic outcomes (Davis et al., 2021; Johnson et al., 2008; Nichols, 2016; Phelps, 2017). Furthermore, acknowledging that it has been suggested that some therapies could potentially lead to blurring of ethical boundaries between participants and provider(s) in some cases, as well as the potential for enhanced suggestibility, there might be increased risk for serious intimate ethical boundary violations by session facilitators/monitors, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse (Anderson, B., Danforth, A., Grob, C., 2020; Goldhill, 2020; Pilecki et al., 2021), though psychedelics and entactogens are by no means unique in this regard. Some populations might have a higher risk for adverse reactions from psychedelic or entactogenic drugs, such as people with a known history of serious cardiac conditions or serious mental conditions such as borderline personality disorder or bipolar disorder (Bender and Hellerstein, 2022; Bradberry et al., 2022; Leonard et al., 2018; Lim et al., 2012; Malcolm and Thomas, 2021). Given the broad array of potential challenges with therapies that may use psychedelics (e.g., psilocybin) or entactogens (e.g., MDMA), compounded by an absence of consensus about how best to address these challenges, a proactive collaborative approach may be most effective, where a partnership of subject matter expertise can consolidate efforts and collectively work to address relevant issues (Belouin et al., 2022; Belouin and Henningfield, 2018; Xi et al., 2023). Best practices good, credentialling, et. Information Being Requested This letter seeks broad input to address five major landscape domains that may contribute to developing real- world risk reduction and mitigation frameworks that protect public health and safety when considering implementing potential therapies that use a psychedelic or entactogenic drug substance in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. These include: (1) service delivery, (2) promoting participant protections, (3) engagement of communities, (4) safeguarding equitable access, and (5) best practices for data standards. Service Delivery What is the spectrum of interdisciplinary practitioners who will be held accountable as session facilitators/monitors for the potential use of these substances in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings? Training considerations What are the minimal training standards for integrated care delivery? What curriculum is needed that best addresses variations in psychotherapy (e.g., how best to address a participant's vulnerability and manage psychedelic-related challenging experiences)? Credentialing considerations What are the relevant background education, qualifications, professional experiences, and potential examinations that might be considered for interdisciplinary credentialing? Which disciplines may represent `service providers' (e.g., clinical practitioners, counselors, peer support)? What might be appropriate supervision and practice hour requirements? What types of guidance documents may be necessary for those who provide close supervision/monitoring of participants using psychedelics or entactogens? Promoting Participant Protections Provide input on strategies that may be critical to protecting participants, including: What strategies will be needed to ensure participant education, screening for medical or mental health conditions that may disqualify from participation, and informed consent prior to an individual participating in a therapy that may use a psychedelic or entactogenic drug substance? What is needed to assess baseline pre-dose and adverse event monitoring post-dose (e.g., suicidal ideation or behavior, physiological reactions, psychological harm, substance misuse, and drug-drug interactions)? What information is available or needed on how medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings might incorporate substance misuse screening and prevention, risk mitigation, safety and ethical monitoring strategies that protect participants from potential ethical boundary violations from providers? What components need to be developed to support ethical- vigilance reporting systems (e.g., state departments of consumer protection, professional societies, state licensing bodies, and law enforcement)? What data might be collected that improves existing pharmacovigilance reporting systems? How will these strategies complement existing patient protection regulations enforced by FDA that reduce risk for clinical trial participants as well as for users of approved and regulated products? Engagement of Communities The PATH Caucus invites input to help identify best mechanisms/approaches that achieve engagement with diverse communities, including: How might some indigenous people's use of psychedelics (e.g., ayahuasca, peyote) as sacraments in spiritual ceremonial or ritual healing practices, improve our understanding to protect public health and safety? How might we ensure engagement with vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by mental health conditions, including people experiencing homelessness, racial/ethnic minorities, sexual and gender minorities, older adults, people living with disabilities and chronic health conditions, and individuals in the criminal justice system (Ortiz et al., 2022)? Are there examples of best practices that facilitate provider (e.g., clinical practitioners, counselors, and peer support) engagement with vulnerable populations? How do we effectively navigate societal stigma associated with psychedelic or entactogenic use? How do we effectively educate healthcare, local crisis response systems, and law enforcement? How do we best engage in comprehensive transparent community educational outreach? Safeguarding Equitable Access What should be considered critical elements to the development of capabilities across the following domains or activities? Reimbursements that ensure equitable access to services. Healthcare economic impact analyses. Types of medically supervised and interpersonally supportive therapy settings. Collaboration on activities that may include input on prescribing, administering, and dispensing. Manufacturing and distribution standards. Supporting oversight of the available supply of substances. Diversion control monitoring. Information on how potential psychedelic and entactogenic medicinal use might fit within the medication use process and workflow of health care systems. How should these activities be performed in a manner that complements and supports FDA's regulation of development, manufacturing, distribution, marketing and use of psychedelics? Best Practices for Data Standards What types of data standards and repositories (e.g., Coordinated Registry Networks) may be created to collect data that continually informs best practices and vice versa? How might current surveillance systems of regulated and unregulated settings be improved? For example, Researched Abuse, Diversion and Addiction- Related Surveillance (RADARS), Monitoring the Future, National Survey on Drug Use and Health, and the Drug Abuse Warning Network, collect actionable data on psychedelic and entactogenic use; associated adverse events; prevalence of medical and non-medical use; frequency, dose, and use settings; and participant comorbidities, health concerns, long-term effects, as well as demographic characteristics. Please email your input and feedback to PATH@mail.house.gov by close of business on February 28, 2025. Your responses to these questions are crucial, as they will directly inform Congress on how best to contribute to protecting public health and safety, acknowledging the complex nature of issues associated with these novel therapies that use psychedelic or entactogenic substances in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. We aim to ensure the path we walk is illuminated for all Congressional members where they can make informed decisions on the relevant issues.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate Northern Michigan Children's Assessment Center on 10 years of dedicated service to the community. Northern Michigan Children's Assessment Center (NMCAC) provides services for abused children in areas all across the region, including Crawford, Iosco, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, and Roscommon counties. Since 2014, NMCAC has been a compassionate voice for those most vulnerable in our society. Under the leadership of Executive Director and Founder Rebecca Yuncker, NMCAC has transformed from a one-person operation into one of the greatest advocacy organizations in the state, offering counseling, advocacy, forensic interviewing and medical services for both children and adults. With locations in both Tawas City and Roscommon, this diverse group of professionals have dedicated their lives to the noble undertaking of improving the lives of those who desperately need it most. They are a great example of servant leadership and I'm grateful for their selfless devotion to this cause. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate Northern Michigan Children's Assessment Center on 10 years of dedicated service to our communities and state.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate PACE North on their five years of dedicated service to the Northern Michigan Community. Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly--North is an all- inclusive healthcare plan, which serves primarily as an alternative tailored to individuals' and families' specific needs. Once admitted, an interdisciplinary team works with families to design a plan that works for each person. Once this is done, PACE replaces traditional health coverage such as Medicare and Medicaid to become both provider and caregiver. Under the leadership of Executive Director Nicole Farkas, PACE North has helped hundreds of seniors navigate the uncertain terrain of living co-dependently, providing top of the line medical care as well as kind and compassionate assistance with day-to-day life. PACE North has certainly lived up to their core values of Quality Safety, Compassion, Integrity, Collaboration and Community. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate PACE North on their five years of dedicated service to the Northern Michigan Community. I wish Director Farkas, Dr. Wilborn and the rest of the team the very best going forward.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate Ray Carlson for being named the Marquette County Veteran of the Year. I thank him for his immense sacrifices and love of country. Ray joined the United States Navy shortly after graduating from Dollar Bay High School in 1969. After completing training at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Camp Pendleton, and Coronado, Ray was deployed to Vietnam where he was stationed at TanAn and assigned to a Riverboat base, supporting combat operations throughout Vietnam as a central maintenance hub for U.S. watercraft. Ray returned home from his service just in time for Thanksgiving in 1971, earning the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal for his time overseas. He began his civilian career in the Western UP at the White Copper Mine, and upon its closure, obtained a Civil Engineering Degree from Michigan Technological University. Ray went on to lead large civil engineering projects throughout the UP, culminating with the critical HW-58 project in Grand Marais. Ray's emphasis on service above self did not stop there, as he has been incredibly active within the Veteran community, serving in numerous capacities throughout the American Legion, including Post 44 Commander, 12th District Commander, and the 5th Zone Commander--spanning the entire Upper Peninsula over the past 20 years. As one of the most active and dedicated individuals in the region, Ray also serves the community during Bingo at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans and Marquette County Fair, Boys State, and the Post 44 youth raffle. Ray also has even coached baseball for the American Legion teams. Reigniting a passion for the sport he enjoyed in his childhood, Ray's time as a baseball coach has also helped many young men who received his mentorship and guidance--both on and off the field--as they have come through the Legion summer ball program. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Ray Carlson as the Marquette County Veteran of the Year. I thank him for a lifetime of dedicated service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Northwest Michigan Action Agency for their 50 years of service to the Northern Michigan community. Since 1974, NMCAA has provided Northern Michigan with community-based service, helping bridge the gap between poverty and self-sustainability by supporting independence and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Providing assistance for 10 counties across Northwest Michigan, NMCAA has touched countless lives and helped families from across the region find opportunities which due to unfortunate circumstances may have not been available to them otherwise. During their half century of service, NMCAA has become an anchor for the Northwest Michigan Community. It is a place providing opportunity for those who need it most and the organization has certainly lived up to their self-stated mission of fostering positive change, improving quality of life, and building stronger and more connected communities. NMCAA provides a multitude of services for residents, ranging from Housing and Energy Efficiency Services, Homeless Prevention Programs all the way to Economic Security and Child/Family Development initiatives. Their broad scope of assistance is a credit to the phenomenal staff and volunteers of NMCAA, who work tirelessly year- round to ensure that their impact is felt in the community. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Northwest Michigan Action Agency for their 50 years of service to the Northern Michigan community and I wish them nothing but continued success in the future.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Grand Traverse Industries for their 50 years of service to the Northern Michigan community. Founded in May 1974, GTI has continuously provided services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties. Over the years, GTI has expanded to also offer vocational training, employment, and habilitation services to individuals across seven counties of Northwest Lower Michigan. During their half century of service, GTI has helped thousands of people find their passion in life and guide them into fulfilling careers. Their advocacy for those with special needs is admirable and appreciated, and the work that they have done has touched countless lives. GTI has certainly lived up to their core values of integrity, mercy, empathy, and inclusion, as well as being an important partner for businesses across the region, such as Interlochen Center for the Arts and the Cherry Capital Airport. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Grand Traverse Industries on their 50 years of service to the Northern Michigan community. I wish them all continued success and I thank them for their hard work and compassion.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Keweenaw Research Center at Michigan Technological University for earning the Defense Counterintelligence Agency's Industry Award for Excellence. Every year, DCSA annually recognizes entities which exhibit the most impressive counterintelligence capabilities and cooperation with U.S. Government efforts to deter, detect, and disrupt the theft of sensitive or classified information and technology by foreign entities. This is just the latest achievement in what has been a tradition of excellence at Michigan Tech, which has $110 million in research expenditures and has experienced a double-digit increase in research awards over last year's totals. Such an award is quite the achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of both the faculty and students of this exemplary institution. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Keweenaw Research Center at Michigan Technological University for earning the Defense Counterintelligence Agency's industry award for Excellence. I have no doubt they will continue to serve Northern Michigan and our Nation well, as they are always on the cutting edge of innovation.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the staff of ShareCare for thirty years of dedicated service to the Leelanau community. ShareCare is a volunteer service organization that provides assistance to senior citizens across the Northern Michigan community, with services ranging from yard clean-up to simply calling and checking in. Their staff is renowned for their kindness and willingness to help anytime, anywhere. ShareCare's volunteers drive their own vehicles to provide transportation for those seniors who do not have it, and will assist with errands such as grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or paying a visit to loved ones. Volunteers assist caregivers as well, often giving them a much-needed break in their constant responsibilities. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and congratulate the committed and compassionate staff of ShareCare for thirty years of incredible service to the Leelanau community. I wish them all the best and commend them for their steadfast support of our senior citizens.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kelly, a Queens, New York native, graduated from Notre Dame in 1956 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also earned an MBA in 1966 from St. John's University. He spent much of his career with Textron Inc., eventually rising to President of the company's Marine & Land Systems in New Orleans, after departing his role as President of Bell Aerospace Textron in Buffalo, New York. During his time at Bell Aerospace, Mr. Kelly played a critical role in the manufacturing of the lunar ascent engine which was crucial in the Apollo 11 mission piloted by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. Mr. Kelly later joined Pan-American Life Insurance Company's Board of Directors in 1994, becoming chairman in 2004. He has been active in a multitude of organizations, including as a director of the Whitney Bank and as a founding director of the World War II Museum in New Orleans. He is also a founding member and former chairman of the Louisiana Technology Council, and additionally served on the board of directors of Rivada Networks LLC from 2005 to 2010. Mr. Kelly is a founding member and former chairman of the Louisiana Committee of 100, and a founding member and former vice-chairman of the New Orleans Business Council--and most importantly, Mr. Kelly is my friend. I thank him for the memories we have made over the years and for his dedicated service to this Nation. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to wish John Kelly a happy 90th birthday, and I look forward to celebrating with him.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Master Chief Bradford Young of U.S. Coast Guard Station Traverse City for his dedicated service to our grateful Nation. Master Chief Young, a native of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, completed boot camp in 1996. His first duty assignment was aboard the USCGC POLAR SEA, which deployed to Antarctica, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Russia, and Alaska during his service. After his deployment he attended Avionics Technician (AVT) ``A'' School in Elizabeth City, NC, and then reported to Air Station Los Angeles, CA, it was there that he became an Avionics Electrical Technician (AET). In 2008, Master Chief Young returned to Air Station Los Angeles and deployed 3 times to Central America. His heroism didn't stop there, as he also supported Border Patrol Operations and helped to stop drug smuggling and illegal migrants off the coast of California. Master Chief Young an arrived at Air Station Traverse City in June 2019 as the Command Master Chief, where he served honorably until June 2024. His decorated career includes three CG Commendation Medals, three CG Achievement Medals and numerous other personal and unit citations which serve as a testament to his valor and character. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Master Chief Bradford Young of U.S. Coast Guard Station Traverse City for his humble and extraordinary service to our country. I wish him the best in his retirement and future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the extraordinary career of Tom ``SunTan'' Sullivan, from his service to our Nation to his hard work at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore at Northeastern University. Tom has been called the ``backbone'' of the operations at the Barnes & Noble--as a warehouse manager he assured smooth facilitation of operations and inventory, holding a vital role which contributed greatly to the University throughout his tenure. Tom served his country honorably as well, aboard the Navy's USS Brownson DD 868 from 1970 to 1975. Tom demonstrated great humility, honor, and determination in that role. August 3rd is now known as ``National Suntan Day,'' honoring a man who is beloved, admired and respected by all. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the extraordinary career of Tom ``SunTan'' Sullivan and I wish him the very best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor Mr. Howard Seid as U.P. Veteran of the Year. An Air Force Academy graduate, Mr. Seid served in a multitude of roles since 1981. His career's impressive capstone came in 2007 when he served as the Vice Commander of the 433rd Airlift Wing at Lackland AFB. Since retiring from the USAF, Howard has worked tirelessly for other veterans and his community, continuing to exemplify all of the values that are ingrained in our brave men and women in uniform--those of humility, courage, and service above self. Since 2016, Howard has been the Western U.P. representative for the Veteran's Community Action Team (VCAT), working on many issues and barriers that our veterans face every day. As the Vice-Chairman of the VCAT Steering Committee, Howard and his commendable team were notably able to donate over $400,000 in food cards to veterans across the U.P. Howard additionally gives back to his community through the Ontonagon County Veteran's Association, serving as the Commander of Rockland Legion Post 92 and coordinating county-wide veterans' outreach events. As Commander of Post 92, he has almost doubled the membership in seven years. Every year, Howard plans, organizes, and hosts a Veteran's Day dinner party for almost one hundred veterans and spouses in Rockland, thanking them for their service. He also acts as the speaker for the event each year and personally delivers meals to all veterans that cannot attend. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and entire First District, I would like to acknowledge Mr. Howard Seid for his humble and dedicated service to his community and our Nation. I can think of no one more deserving of recognition as the U.P. Veteran of the Year, and I wish Mr. Seid the best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor Mr. Larry Straus for his 74 years of dedicated service to the United States Postal Service. A Drummond Island native, Mr. Straus has been a mail carrier of the USPS since 1950 and has served many Michigan communities over the past seven decades, including Mt. Pleasant and Kingsley. Larry has served the Drummond Island community since 2000 and recently just celebrated his 95 birthday. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor Mr. Larry Straus for his 74 years of dedicated service to the United States Postal Service and wish him an incredibly happy 95th birthday.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to posthumously honor John G. Youker for his service to the United States in the War of 1812. Known to all as ``George,'' Mr. Youker was born to Revolutionary War Patriot John Youker, Sr. and Elizabeth Schall on February 3, 1789, in Montgomery County, New York within the Mohawk Valley Region. Mr. Youker served as a Private in the NY Militia under Captain Frederick German's Company and Lt. Colonel Commandant Calvin Rich's 11th Regiment. From August 22, 1812 to February 22, 1813 he was stationed at Sackets Harbor, which became the center of American military activity during the war. The First Battle of Sackets Harbor began July 19, 1812. It was a major ship building location for the war and a highly important location to defend. Mr. Youker was discharged 3 months before the second battle of Sackets Harbor. After his service, Mr. Youker and his wife, Catharine Burkdorf Youker, lived in Montgomery County, New York with their children. They later settled in Harrison, Pennsylvania in the mid-1840s before following their children to the Grand Traverse Area in the 1860's. Mr. Youker passed away in Blair Township in May of 1870 and was buried at Mt. Hope Cemetery, in what is now Green Lake Township, Grand Traverse County Michigan. In 1870, Veteran stones were not provided and military status was rarely made apparent on a person's headstone, and I would personally like to thank the Northern Michigan Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution for honoring John George Youker in a formal ceremony on August 3rd of this year. The work that they do truly honors our heritage and those that have valiantly served before us. Mr. Speaker, today I offer the posthumous recognition and gratitude that John G. Youker deserves, and I honor him for his service to the United States in the War of 1812.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include in the Record an open letter from myself and Congressman Correa, the founders of the PATH Caucus, to ensure stakeholders have a voice in crafting the rules and regulations surrounding psychedelic assisted treatments. Dear Commenter: In 2022, a new Congressional caucus was created to raise awareness among federal lawmakers about the therapeutic potential of psychedelic and entactogenic drugs to treat several mental health conditions that were refractory to contemporary evidence-based therapies. The Congressional Psychedelics Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus aimed to accelerate and support clinical research in the use of these novel substances, specifically psilocybin and 3,4- methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). To better inform Congressional members, the bipartisan PATH Caucus is seeking input on how to implement programs and policies that address the range of complex issues with potential novel therapies that may use a psychedelic or entactogenic drug in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. To gain a more complete understanding of the issues associated with use of these substances, the PATH Caucus believes that taking an inclusive, intentional, and reasoned approach to gathering input from the public may engender valuable insights that can more accurately and comprehensively characterize how different modalities incorporate the use of these substances while also ensuring responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical use. We seek information from the general public, those who have received psychedelic-assisted therapies as an intervention, interested stakeholders, and those individuals and entities working within the bio-psycho-social-spiritual behavioral health ecosystem (e.g., palliative care, addiction services), which stresses a holistic system of care comprised of clinical providers, counseling, and peer support (Courtney et al., 2023; D'Souza, 2007; Urutia et al., 2023). It will be essential to receive input from people and organizations with specialized experience in implementing therapies where psychedelic or entactogenic drug substances are administered, such as in clinical research protocols (e.g., depression, palliative care, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)), or experience in naming others for such therapies. As a part of the PATH Caucus information gathering effort, we acknowledge the significant anthropological role of certain psychedelic substances such as ayahuasca, peyote, and Psilocybe mushrooms. Some indigenous peoples of the Americas have extensive traditions dating back hundreds to thousands of years, where they incorporated these substances into spiritual ceremonial or ritual healing practices. The PATH Caucus believes that respectful, inclusive, cultural knowledge sharing from these communities may provide substantial insights, further informing our overall understanding, and we welcome their input. If medications derived from psychedelic or entactogenic drug substances are ultimately approved for therapeutic indications by the FDA, it is important for States to understand the risk mitigations frameworks FDA has established and develop ways to make sure they are supported. Aspects of real-world risk reduction and mitigation frameworks may include, but are not limited to, providing comprehensive transparent public education, implementing substance misuse prevention programs, minimizing the potential for adverse reactions, and developing implementable risk mitigation, safety, and ethical monitoring strategies. Moreover, it will be vital to consider how Congress can best support states in developing and adopting scalable infrastructures and sustainable service delivery systems that ensure proper accountability and monitoring, as well as facilitate access and equity in utilization, with a particular focus on communities that may be at risk for experiencing inequities in care resulting in disparate health outcomes (e.g., veterans, the uninsured, those who are experiencing homelessness, people with lower incomes, and individuals living with mental illness and/or co- occurring substance use disorders; Ortiz et al., 2022). In addition, when federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs make these products available, we need to be sure there is sufficient infrastructure to ensure patient safety. All of these components, when collectively addressed, may contribute to more responsible, accountable, safe, and ethical use of psychedelic and entactogenic derived substances in medically supervised and interpersonally supportive settings. The PATH Caucus seeks input that can inform Congress so any potential future appropriations will support states collectively addressing the relevant issues and support necessary federal initiatives such as research, implementation and FDA regulation. Congress believes that by listening and learning from the broader ecosystem, staying abreast of potential innovative evidence-based therapies that may treat individuals with behavioral health disorders refractory to current treatment modalities, and simultaneously undertaking proactive measures for developing real-world risk reduction and mitigation frameworks, will help protect public health and safety.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to submit extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order.

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Smucker), my good friend and fellow freshman classmate from the 115th Congress. In Memory of Randy Alan Walker

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I am honored to lead this Special Order today to discuss post-traumatic growth. I repeat: Post-traumatic growth. June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month, and today, June 27, is National PTSD Awareness Day. Post-traumatic stress is a serious condition that impacts far too many members of the communities that we love and serve and especially among those who have served in uniform. Raising awareness of PTSD has helped in our efforts to reduce stigma, recognize the struggles faced by many, and encourage those in need to seek help. However, it is also critical that we balance the story we tell about times of struggle and trauma. For far too long, society has focused exclusively on the negative impacts of trauma and struggle and pushed a narrative dominated by ideas of dysfunction, disorder, and diagnosis. This language can feel debilitating, a label far too heavy to carry. The result is we are left feeling permanently diminished and damaged and victims of the worst experiences of our lives. It is time to change the conversation, to shine a light on the possibility of growth in the aftermath of trauma and how struggle can be a catalyst, a positive catalyst, for profound growth and transformation. Last year, in partnership with the Boulder Crest Foundation, I introduced H. Res. 496, a resolution to proclaim June 13 as National Post-Traumatic Growth Day. This June 13, Boulder Crest launched the Choose Growth initiative, focused on proliferating the notion of post- traumatic growth, or PTG, across our country. This initiative is intentionally brand and organization agnostic. The objective is to spread the word of growth, possibility, and hope to every corner of our country. Through the Choose Growth community, we will increase support and awareness of the possibility of growth in the aftermath of trauma. We will encourage individuals to share their stories of turning their personal struggles into strength and positivity. The initiative aims to foster a supportive community that embraces growth as part of the healing process. We must ensure that all of those who struggle, no matter who they are, and those who love and care for them, realize that how things are isn't how they have to be, and that growth and strength are possible in the aftermath of trauma. There is much more for us to do here in Washington and around the country in support of those who have experienced trauma. We hope you all will join us in raising awareness of post-traumatic growth as we continue these efforts. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bacon), a fellow classmate from the 115th Congress and fellow General officer.

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I thank General Bacon for his words. One of the first steps to healing is to be able to share stories. When you think about previous times of conflict in our country, the ability to de-stress was a lot simpler than it is now. I will deal with that here in a couple of minutes. The topic of post-traumatic growth is an opportune time to discuss the promise of psychedelic-assisted therapies to treat mental health disorders like PTSD. Just a couple weeks ago, I spoke here on this floor in support of two amendments that I had led with my friend Congressman Lou Correa of California in support of psychedelic-assisted therapies at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Both amendments were passed unanimously by this Chamber. Psychedelic-assisted therapies have the potential to be the first genuine advancement in the treatment of veterans' mental health in decades. It is a true breakthrough therapy potential. Unfortunately, just recently, the FDA's drug advisory committee recently voted against recommending approval of MDMA-assisted therapy to treat PTSD. Many of us in Congress, and especially among those of us who have served in uniform, were deeply disappointed and frustrated by this, what I believe and what we believe to be, shortsighted decision. The advisory panel chose to ignore the voices of veterans whose lives have been forever improved by MDMA-assisted therapy in favor of those who have been on a mission to discredit--and I repeat discredit--this promising treatment at all costs. That is shameful. We can accept a ``no,'' but it should be for the betterment of the greater good, in this case, of helping veterans and those who need different kinds of help. It should not be a shortsighted and potentially uninformed bureaucratic decision. I have had the opportunity to personally meet with many of the researchers involved in this study and the veterans whose lives have been forever changed by these therapies in such a positive way. That experience made the potential of this treatment clear to me, and many of the veterans told me that they would not be alive today were it not for this therapy. I am confident that this will be a speed bump in our overall efforts to truly heal the invisible wounds like PTSD that millions of Americans face today. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Iowa (Mrs. Miller- Meeks), who is another fellow leader in uniform and an esteemed member from the Iowa delegation.

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, in closing, I am extremely grateful for all of my colleagues who have spoken here today and shared their stories and also celebrated the people who have gone through tough times, whether it be, if you will, something as simple as weather related, but, more importantly, the stresses related to life. We are the greatest nation in the world because we treat people right, and we expect the same in return. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to raise awareness of post- traumatic growth, and I want to repeat that: post-traumatic growth, a positive way forward and not a negative ending. It is my sincere hope that those of us in Congress and Americans across our country can work to help those who have experienced trauma, that they can find growth, purpose, and connection. I say as a veteran and a marine: Our veterans never quit on us. We will never quit on them. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mackinaw Trail Winery and Brewery on 20 years of business and service to the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. Founded in 2004, the esteemed business is owned and operated by Ralph and Laurie Stabile, fulfilling Ralph's lifelong dream of owning a winery. In 2010, their son Dustin took over the operations of the production facility, continuing the family tradition of producing excellent wines for patrons all across the UP and state of Michigan. Mackinaw Trails is rapidly expanding and is one of the best wineries in Michigan, with a brand new, state of the art facility that was recently built in Petoskey, Michigan. The winery has been critically acclaimed as one of the finest in the entire state and has even been referred to as the ``North Star'' of the Michigan wine industry. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mackinaw Trail Winery and Brewery on 20 years of business and service to the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. Their excellence and hard work has been a boom for the local economy and a staple of the community, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Senator George Alvin McManus, Jr., who served the great State of Michigan in many capacities throughout his long and well-lived life. Born on the Murray Farm of Old Mission Peninsula, George was very familiar with hard work and the Michigan way of life. A devout man of God, George proved to have a humble servant's heart as well as a vibrant sense of humor. I am sure it was those qualities that sustained his incredible 70-year marriage to his wife, Clara. Though George boasted many accolades in his lifetime, perhaps his most important achievements were his 9 children, 23 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. In 1990, George was elected to the Michigan State Senate, where he served until 2002. George was a wealth of advice, especially when it came to agriculture. He was an instrumental voice in northern Michigan and our entire State. George McManus was an important part of the fabric of his community and will be dearly missed. May God bless George's family and his loved ones in their time of grief.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, June 14, 2017, was a dark stain on America's history. There are several of us in this room today who would not be here for two reasons. Number one, and first and foremost, by the grace of God, and number two, by the fact that then-Majority Whip Steve Scalise showed up for practice that morning. Without his security detail, none of us would be here. The deranged gunman that took, for whatever reason, revenge upon the Republicans on the baseball field that morning sought to give no mercy, just to create havoc. We know that we are better than the behavior that we saw that day. The bond that brought us all together, especially that day on the baseball field, spread, I believe, throughout the country to bring people together at a time when we needed it. We continue to need it. When I mention now-Leader Scalise coming that day, he is only here because of the actions of one of our Members, and that man is Representative Brad Wenstrup, combat surgeon, dedicated soldier, and ready for the task at hand. As I personally witnessed Brad tending to Representative Scalise on the field, it was truly Brad's readiness and professionalism that enabled the life flight to occur and Scalise to successfully make it to the hospital. I commend Colonel Wenstrup for what he did and the calm with which he did it. It is the calm, not the excitement, that drives us to the positive results. I cannot thank him enough, as a personal friend, for what he has done for the community as a whole to show what good behavior really means in the face of extreme adversity. I am honored to be among my colleagues here tonight. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Chair, I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 8070, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. I thank Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Smith for their leadership in bringing this critical piece of bipartisan legislation for our national security of our Nation to the floor for the 64th consecutive year. This bill continues to provide resources and capabilities to counter our Nation's number one threat: China. The Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee portions of the bill accomplish this by ensuring the Defense Intelligence Enterprise, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, and our Special Operations Forces have the tools required to execute the Department's efforts in strategic competition and in countering malign Chinese actions. There is more work to be done, though. This bill is far from perfect and requires compromises from both sides, but it is an overwhelmingly bipartisan bill that supports our servicemembers and their families by including the recommendations of the Quality of Life Panel to include a 19.5 percent pay raise for our junior enlisted and a 4.5 percent pay raise for all other servicemembers. More importantly, it provides our servicemembers with the resources to accomplish the task our Nation asks of them. This is a critically important bill and essential to our national security, and I urge my colleagues to support it.