Oklahoma Advances 'Right to Try' Bill for Experimental Treatments

Legislation would allow patients to access unapproved therapies without FDA oversight.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:31pm

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The Oklahoma State Legislature has advanced a bill that would create the 'Right to Try for Individualized Treatments Act', allowing patients to access experimental medical treatments that have not yet been approved by the FDA.

Why it matters

This bill is part of a broader 'right to try' movement that aims to give terminally ill patients access to unapproved drugs and therapies, bypassing the FDA's lengthy approval process. Supporters argue it could provide hope for those with no other options, while critics are concerned about safety and oversight.

The details

Senate Bill 933 cleared a House committee on Wednesday, moving it closer to a full vote. The legislation would permit patients with a terminal illness to try treatments that have completed the first phase of the FDA's approval process, even if they have not received full approval.

  • The bill was advanced by the Oklahoma State Legislature on April 1, 2026.

The players

Oklahoma State Legislature

The legislative branch of the government of the U.S. state of Oklahoma, responsible for passing laws in the state.

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What’s next

The bill will now move to a full vote in the Oklahoma House of Representatives before potentially being signed into law by the governor.

The takeaway

This 'right to try' legislation reflects the ongoing debate over patient autonomy, access to experimental treatments, and the balance between providing hope and ensuring safety for those with terminal illnesses.