North Carolina lawmaker introduces proposal to broaden veterans’ access to hyperbaric oxygen treatment

A measure recently introduced by State Rep. Celeste C. Cairns seeks to expand the treatment choices available to veterans with traumatic brain injuries and posttraumatic stress disorder, as stated by the North Carolina State House.

The measure, labeled HB 1081, was filed April 28 during the 2025 regular session and appears on the calendar under the title: “Funds for Veterans/HBOT.”

Here is our summary, based on the actual bill text, with some clarification to detail its key points.

In summary, the bill allocates $3 million in one-time General Fund resources for the 2026-27 fiscal year to the Department of Health and Human Services. The funds would establish a grant to the nonprofit HBOT 4 HEROES to offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy to qualified North Carolina veterans with traumatic brain injury or posttraumatic stress disorder at no cost to them. Program requirements include clinical intake, therapy administration, and both pre- and post-treatment outcome measurements. Existing state care standards must be met. The legislation aims to increase access to non-pharmaceutical therapies and includes a report requirement for June 30, 2027, covering service details, outcomes and grant use. This act is effective July 1, 2026.

A parallel item, SB 870, was also submitted in the North Carolina Senate by Sen. Kevin Corbin (along with two additional lawmakers) on April 28, 2026.

Among the legislation’s four sponsors, Grant L. Campbell, MD introduced the highest number of bills—62—during the 2025 regular session.

The path for legislation in North Carolina comprises a multi-phase process before final adoption. A legislator files a bill, which then moves to a committee. The measure requires three readings in each legislative chamber. Modifications by either chamber necessitate agreed language. After passage in both chambers, the proposal advances to the governor, who has 10 days—or 30 if the legislature is adjourned—to sign, veto or allow it to proceed without signature.

Further details on current bills and legislative initiatives can be accessed here.

Cairns received her BBA from the University of Georgia.

Cairns, a Republican, was elected to serve in the North Carolina State House in 2023, taking over representation of the state’s 13th House district from Patricia McElraft.