Photo: WBZ NewsRadio Archive
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — After ballot question four was shut down last November in Massachusetts, a new fight to bring the proposal back to Beacon Hill has emerged.
If it had been approved, the ballot question would have legalized psychedelic substances to be used in practices like clinical research and mental health treatment. However, nearly 57% of Massachusetts voters voted ‘no’ on the measure, according to the Associated Press.
State Rep Patrick Kearney (4th Plymouth District) filed House Bill 4050 Wednesday to bring the legalization of magic mushrooms back on the legislative floor.
House Bill 4050 is said to offer more framework on how these hallucinogens will be regulated and distributed.
If passed, the bill will allow adults over 21 years old to use psychedelics under regulated permit systems. It would also allow licensed regulated facilities to purchase magic mushrooms or grow selected amounts. The program would be overseen by the Department of Public Health.
Additionally, the bill also called to "[strike] out the following words: (13) Psilocybin (14) Psilocyn," the active ingredient names, from Class C of the state’s controlled substance list.
“[By] cultivating these relationships with these natural organisms, I think there’s a lot we can learn from,” Thomas told WBZ NewsRadio.
Some supporters said studies on psilocybin showed benefits for treatments for post-traumatic stress disorders.
“We’re in somewhat of a crisis in terms of our mental health care,” Rob, an Emerson student, added. “We need new tools, new ways to approach that crisis.”
However, voters shut down the first proposal to legalize the drug during the November election. Some who opposed the idea said they are skeptical about the security and oversight if the drug is legalized.
“It scares me that it’s going to make it easier for people to use, easier for people to convince themselves now that it’s safe,” Phil said.
WBZ NewsRadio's Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.