Rhode Island is moving closer to psychedelics medicine reform as the House of Representatives passed a bill this week to decriminalize possession and cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms.
The new law would remove criminal penalties for possessing and cultivating psilocybin for personal use (up to one ounce) and would be able to share that amount with other adults. The legislation passed on the floor with a clear majority vote of 54-11.
“This is a step toward addressing mental health treatment in a modern way based on evidence and research,” Rep. Brandon Potter, one of the bill’s sponsors said. “Psilocybin can be used safely, both recreationally and therapeutically, and for our veterans and neighbors who are struggling with chronic PTSD, depression and addiction, it can be a valuable treatment tool.”
The bill also has a framework for legalization, saying that if the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reschedules psychedelics then the Rhode Island Department of Health “shall establish rules and regulations pertaining to cultivation, distribution and medical prescription.”
The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration, where state senators have been working on their own decrim measures.
Incredibly grateful to my colleagues in the @RIHouseofReps for supporting my legislation to decriminalize psilocybin.
This is a positive step toward addressing mental healthcare with modern, evidence-based policy and research. pic.twitter.com/WOxNQYpI4J
— Brandon Potter (@BrandonPotterRI) June 12, 2023
In other decrim news, Nevada is also getting closer to psychedelic medicine reform. As reported in Marijuana Moment, last week the Nevada legislature gave final approval to create a working group to study psychedelics and develop a plan for regulated access for therapeutic purposes.The bill is now awaiting approval from the governor’s desk.
