Illinois State representative Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego), a proud U.S. Marines veteran, has been appointed to the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council and continues her steadfast work to prevent veteran suicide and improve mental health care for those who have served our Nation.
“I am deeply honored to serve on the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council,” said Kifowit. “This appointment represents a critical opportunity to advance innovative approaches to mental health care for our nation’s veterans. I am committed to working collaboratively with my colleagues and stakeholders to ensure that veterans receive the support and resources they deserve.”
With a distinguished record of advocacy for veterans’ mental health, Representative Kifowit has long been at the forefront of efforts to address the pressing issue of veteran suicide. In 2016, she led the Veteran Suicide Task Force, which produced a comprehensive report outlining actionable steps to enhance the delivery of care to veterans. She continues to serve as a guiding force in the implementation of legislation aimed at ending the veteran suicide epidemic.
The Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council, established in the Department of Healthcare and Family Services in 2023 and funded through the FY 2024 budget with $5 million from the General Revenue Fund, aims to accelerate research and deployment of emerging therapies for the treatment of conditions that increase the risk of veteran suicide. This includes funding for healthcare professionals pursuing or interested in researching psychedelic medicine, as well as supporting direct patient treatment with psychedelic medicine through FDA’s expanded access and compassionate use programs.
The Council, consists of nine members, including at least three veterans, will provide critical guidance on rules, clinical infrastructure, grant awards, provider training, patient safety, insurance reimbursement, public awareness campaigns.
According to a report by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), suicide remains a leading cause of death among US veterans under age 45. This program’s creation reflects the urgent need to address this crisis and explore innovative solutions to support our veterans’ mental health.
Representative Kifowit is appointed alongside representative Mark L. Walker (D-Arlington Heights), a Vietnam veteran, by Illinois House Speaker Immanuel “Chris” Welch.
—Illinois State representative Stephanie Kifowit