Controlled dangerous substances; Veterans Mental Health Innovation Act; authorizing certain scientific research and clinical trials related to ibogaine; requiring registration; providing certain immunities; effective date.

HB 4293, the "Veterans Mental Health Innovation Act," allows Oklahoma universities and affiliated research facilities to conduct clinical trials using ibogaine - a substance derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant - to treat specific medical conditions. It authorizes research for conditions like PTSD, treatment-resistant depression, opioid use disorder, and chronic pain, requiring registration with state health and agriculture agencies and annual reporting. Researchers and qualifying patients participating in approved trials receive legal immunity from penalties for ibogaine use, possession, or distribution under strict compliance with the bill’s requirements. The law explicitly states it does not decriminalize ibogaine for general use, focusing solely on regulated research. All activities must follow detailed study protocols and submit final reports to state legislative leaders.