Rhode Island lawmakers are reintroducing legislation to decriminalize possession of magic mushrooms.
State Representative Brian Potter of Cranston, who filed the same bill in 2022, says people are struggling with chronic PTSD and other mental health disorders which can be treated with psilocybin.
“Veterans and many others in our community are struggling with chronic PTSD, depression and other mental health disorders that can be totally debilitating,” said Representative Potter (D-Dist. 16, Cranston). “We should give them the freedom to try every tool available and not criminalize a natural, effective remedy.”
“Psilocybin is not addictive. It’s naturally occurring and people have been using it recreationally and medicinally for thousands of years,” said Senator Kallman (D-Dist. 15, Pawtucket, Providence). “It is only illegal because, over 50 years ago, President Nixon associated it with his political opponents. It’s time to undo that mistake and give our neighbors struggling with chronic mental illness, and all Rhode Islanders, the freedom to use psilocybin responsibly.”
Oregon and Colorado decriminalized magic mushrooms in recent referendums.
Rhode Island Police Departments have not weighed in on the latest legislative effort.
Several other states considering similar bills include New York, New Jersey and Vermont.
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