This bill establishes a veterans recovery pilot program and fund in Iowa, aimed at reimbursing expenses related to hyperbaric oxygen treatment for eligible veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury. The bill introduces new definitions and provisions under Code sections 35E.1 through 35E.6, including the creation of the veterans recovery fund, which will be managed by the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs. The fund will consist of appropriated moneys and other contributions, and it will be used to cover expenses for administering the pilot program, treatment costs, and necessary travel and living expenses for veterans receiving treatment.

The bill outlines the process for treatment facilities to seek reimbursement for hyperbaric oxygen treatment, requiring them to submit a proposed treatment plan for approval by the department. Treatment facilities must provide the treatment at no cost to the veterans and are responsible for reporting on the veterans' health improvements. The bill also stipulates that the program will be repealed on July 1, 2031, and mandates the department to adopt necessary administrative rules by January 1, 2026, to ensure the program's implementation and operation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135B.1, 17A.4