Press Release: 4/3/2025

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Appointment of HERO Act Commissions to Advance Veterans' Health and Quality of Life

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the formal appointment of two new commissions established under the HERO Act.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

4/02/2025

MEDIA CONTACT

Jacqueline Manning, Communications Director / Press Secretary

Phone

Call Jacqueline Manning, Communications Director / Press Secretary at (857) 303-6051

Online

Email Jacqueline Manning, Communications Director / Press Secretary at jacqueline.manning@mass.gov

BOSTON, MA — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the formal appointment of two new commissions established under the HERO Act—the Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group (VAT) and the Veterans Quality of Life Commission (VQL)—to explore innovative treatments and develop solutions that enhance the well-being of veterans across Massachusetts. The creation of these commissions reflects the Administration’s continued commitment to fulfilling the HERO Act’s mission to improve the lives of veterans through evidence-based policy and collaboration.

Signed into law by Governor Maura Healey in August 2024, the HERO Act is the most comprehensive veterans’ legislation in Massachusetts history, expanding services, enhancing equity, and strengthening support for veterans across the Commonwealth. Among its many provisions, the Act calls for the establishment of these commissions to explore cutting-edge treatments and improve quality of life outcomes for veterans.

Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group (VAT)

The Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group is tasked with evaluating the potential benefits of psychedelic therapies—such as psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA—in treating mental health disorders among veterans. The group will analyze scientific research, clinical trials, and expert opinions to assess the safety and effectiveness of these treatments under medical supervision.

“Massachusetts is leading the way in exploring new and innovative approaches to treating mental health challenges among veterans,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “The Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group will provide evidence-based guidance that could transform how we care for veterans dealing with PTSD, depression, and other service-related conditions.”

The Working Group consists of experts from medical institutions, veterans organizations, and behavioral health fields.

Members include:

Franklin King (Chair)

John Bradley

Paul Morrissey

Paul Jones

Rob McLaughlin

Jason Main

Michael Allard

Roxanne Sholevar

Sharmin Ghaznavi

Colin Beatty

Veterans Quality of Life Commission (VQL)

The Veterans Quality of Life Commission is tasked with studying and developing proposals to improve the overall quality of life for veterans in Massachusetts. The Commission will explore ways to enhance employment opportunities, access to healthcare, housing stability, and other critical areas that impact veterans’ well-being. Through collaboration with veterans’ organizations and policy experts, the Commission will generate actionable recommendations to strengthen services for veterans statewide.

“We’re committed to ensuring that veterans in Massachusetts have the resources and support they need to thrive,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “The Veterans Quality of Life Commission will play a critical role in identifying areas where we can make meaningful improvements and developing solutions that reflect the needs of our veterans.”

The Commission is composed of veterans advocates, policy experts, and representatives from key organizations dedicated to supporting veterans.

Members include:

Cory Ahonen

Scott Pita

Leroy Ashwood

Ashley Booker

Al Tenorio

Sarah Bateman

Senator Dylan Fernandes

Sergeant Ryan Puzzo

Bill LeBeau

Robert Breaker

Melissa Alden

The formation of these commissions underscores Massachusetts’ leadership in advancing evidence-based approaches to veteran care and addressing the evolving needs of Massachusetts veterans.

To learn more, visit the Veterans Alternative Therapy Working Group and the Veterans Quality of Life Commission’s websites.