California Takes a Psychedelic Leap

California Senate Bill 58, a bill that would allow personal possession and use of small amounts of psychedelic mushrooms has passed the California State Assembly. 

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The state assembly debated for several months, before passing the bill that removes criminal penalties for personal possession and use of a limited set of “naturally occurring psychedelics.”

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However, the bill only allows for certain substances. The covered psychedelics include psilocybin (mushrooms), Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and mescaline (not including peyote). 

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The bill also requires the state to begin processes that will craft policy proposals for the therapeutic use of psychedelics.

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State Senator Scott Weiner has stated he believes this is a step in the right direction for veterans, and first responders. 

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“California’s veterans, first responders, and others struggling with PTSD, depression, and addiction deserve access to these promising plant medicines,” said Senator Wiener. “SB 58 has prudent safeguards in place after we incorporated feedback from three years of deep engagement with a broad array of stakeholders. We know these substances are not addictive, and they show tremendous promise in treating many of the most intractable conditions driving our nation’s mental health crisis. It’s time to stop criminalizing people who use psychedelics for healing or personal well-being.” – Sen. Weiner

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Although the bill passed the assembly (42-11), it now must return to the senate for final sign-off before heading to Gov. Gavin Newsom. SB 58 is slated to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, if passed. 

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This has been one example of states making efforts to allow this type of treatment for those suffering from PTSD, depression, and other maladies.  

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In fact, 16 other states have also taken similar steps. Recently, the head of the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission announced that the panel will explore the possibility of committing over $40 million to developing a treatment of opioid-use disorder. 

To learn more about the way warfighters are using alternative treatments, visit the Grunt Style Foundation.