Debra Borchardt
It’s been a busy few weeks for psilocybin legislation in the country. Three different states are pushing ahead with various forms of psychedelic drug regulation, mostly centered around the mushroom compound of psilocybin.
Hawaii
In January 2023, Hawaii’s Legislature introduced HB 1340 to create an advisory council to review, evaluate, and recommend new medicinal treatments for mental health. The council will review laws, regulations, administrative rules, and procedures at the federal, state, and local levels regarding the treatment of mental health.
Specifically, it is intended to develop a long-term strategic plan to ensure the availability of therapeutic psilocybin, psilocybin-based products, and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) that is safe, accessible, and affordable for adults 21 or older.
The measure passed out of committee with amendments on April 4 with unanimous support, but now faces disagreements in the full House and Senate.
Iowa
On April 11, Iowa lawmakers recommended passage of Republican-backed H.B. 240 that would decriminalize psilocybin, as well as psilocin, another active chemical compound in magic mushrooms. The law would remove the two compounds from the state’s Schedule I controlled substances list.
The House’s Public Safety Committee voted 3-0. The simply worded bill was sponsored by Republican Rep. Jeff Shipley.
Washington
Washington state created a working advisory group to help guide the state’s lawmakers on psilocybin regulations. The bill, S.B. 5263, also seeks to regulate psilocybin treatment centers for people over the age of 21. That was approved on April 14 by the Washington state Senate with 40 in favor, four against, and five abstentions.
The law also established a pilot program administered by the University of Washington Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences to be created no later than Jan. 1, 2025. It would offer treatment to first responders and veterans experiencing PTSD, mood disorders, or substance abuse disorders.
The group has approximately one year to deliver its final report.
“It is the intent of Washington to facilitate the establishment of safe, legal and affordable psilocybin service centers to provide citizens of Washington who are at least 21 years of age with opportunities for supported psilocybin experiences for wellness and personal growth,” according to the legislation, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Jesse Salomon. The legislation also seeks to avoid diversion of the product to other states.
