In a groundbreaking move, California lawmakers have given the green light to a proposal that would decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms and other plant-based psychedelics like DMT and mescaline.
The bill still needs the signature of Gov. Gavin Newsom, but it is expected that he will support it. This is a significant moment in the history of psychedelics, as California becomes the second state after Oregon to decriminalize the use of psilocybin mushrooms. Let's take a closer look at the significance of this move and what it means for the future of psychedelic medicine.
The bill, which passed on June 28th, 2021, would decriminalize the possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms, DMT, and mescaline for personal use by adults aged 21 and over. This means that individuals would no longer face criminal charges for possessing or using these substances. However, it is worth noting that the sale, distribution, and cultivation of these substances would still be illegal under the new law.
The move to decriminalize psychedelics comes amid growing evidence that these substances could have therapeutic benefits in the treatment of a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. California lawmakers hope that by decriminalizing these substances, they will create a pathway for future research into the therapeutic benefits of these substances and increase access to these treatments for those who need them.
The decriminalization of psilocybin mushrooms and other plant-based psychedelics is part of a broader trend towards the legalization of drugs that were once considered taboo. In recent years, we have seen a significant shift in attitudes towards marijuana, with a growing number of states legalizing cannabis for medicinal and recreational use. The decriminalization of psychedelics is another step towards a more rational and evidence-based approach to drug policy.
Decriminalization is not the same as legalization, but it is an important step towards ending the war on drugs and reducing the harms associated with drug use. By decriminalizing psychedelics, we can reduce the number of people who are sent to jail for non-violent drug offenses, while also creating opportunities for research into the therapeutic potential of these substances.
The decriminalization of psilocybin mushrooms and other plant-based psychedelics in California is a significant milestone in the history of psychedelic medicine.
The move will create opportunities for research into these substances and increase access to these treatments for those who need them. While decriminalization is not the same as legalization, it is an important step towards a more rational and evidence-based approach to drug policy. With more and more states taking a progressive stance on drug policy, it is clear that we are moving towards a future where drug use is not a criminal offense but a public health issue that can be addressed through education, harm reduction, and evidence-based treatments.
