Where Are Magic Mushrooms Legal In The Us
Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of fungi that contain psilocybin, a psychoactive compound that can produce profound changes in perception, mood, and cognition. Despite their potential benefits for mental health, spiritual growth, and creativity, magic mushrooms are still illegal in most parts of the world, including the United States. However, recent changes in laws and policies have allowed some states and cities to decriminalize or legalize magic mushrooms, paving the way for a new era of research, therapy, and cultural acceptance. In this article, we will explore the current status of magic mushrooms in the US, including their legal, medical, and cultural aspects.
What Are Magic Mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms are a type of fungi that belong to the genus Psilocybe, which contains over 200 species found in different parts of the world, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. The most common species used for their psychoactive effects are Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata, and Psilocybe cyanescens. Magic mushrooms contain various psychoactive compounds, the most notable of which is psilocybin, a chemical that can be converted into psilocin, a serotonin-like molecule that binds to specific receptors in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and the default mode network.
When consumed, magic mushrooms can alter the perception, thought, and emotion of the user, leading to a range of experiences that can be positive, neutral, or negative, depending on various factors, such as the dose, the setting, the mindset, and the personality of the user. Some common effects of magic mushrooms include:
- Visual distortions, such as color enhancement, pattern recognition, and object morphing;
- Emotional openness, such as empathy, compassion, and awe;
- Cognitive flexibility, such as creativity, insight, and intuition;
- Physical sensations, such as nausea, dizziness, and muscle relaxation;
- Spiritual or mystical experiences, such as ego dissolution, unity consciousness, and divine revelation.
What Is The Legal Status Of Magic Mushrooms In The US?
As of 2021, magic mushrooms are illegal under federal law in the United States, as they are classified as Schedule I drugs, which means they are considered to have a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use, and a lack of safety for use under medical supervision. However, some states and cities have taken steps to decriminalize or legalize magic mushrooms, either through ballot initiatives, legislative actions, or administrative policies. Here is an overview of the current legal status of magic mushrooms in the US:
Oregon
In November 2020, Oregon became the first state to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, for adults 21 and older under the supervision of licensed facilitators. The Oregon Psilocybin Services Act (Measure 109) allows the creation of a regulated system of licensed psilocybin service centers that can provide psilocybin-assisted therapy to individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The law does not legalize the recreational use of psilocybin, nor does it allow the sale, possession, or use of psilocybin outside of the licensed centers.
In addition to Measure 109, Oregon also passed Measure 110, which decriminalizes the possession of small amounts of all drugs, including psilocybin, and redirects the savings from law enforcement and incarceration to fund addiction treatment and harm reduction services. The law reduces the penalty for possession of less than 12 grams of psilocybin from a felony to a civil violation, punishable by a maximum fine of $100.
Denver and Oakland
In May 2019, Denver became the first city in the US to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms, making the possession, use, and cultivation of psilocybin for personal use the lowest law enforcement priority and prohibiting the city from spending resources to prosecute such cases. The initiative, known as Initiative 301, passed with a narrow margin of 50.56% of the vote. However, the law does not legalize the sale or distribution of psilocybin, nor does it protect users from federal prosecution, as Denver is still subject to federal drug laws.
In June 2019, Oakland became the second city in the US to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms, following a unanimous vote by the city council. The resolution, which applies to all “entheogenic plants,” including psilocybin, ayahuasca, and iboga, makes the enforcement of laws against possession, cultivation, and use of such plants the city’s lowest priority and prohibits city funds from being used to assist in their enforcement. The law does not legalize the sale or distribution of psilocybin, nor does it protect users from federal prosecution, as Oakland is still subject to federal drug laws.
Santa Cruz and Ann Arbor
In January 2020, Santa Cruz became the third city in the US to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms, following a unanimous vote by the city council. The resolution, which applies to all “entheogenic plants and fungi,” including psilocybin, ayahuasca, and peyote, makes the investigation and arrest of such plants the city’s lowest priority and prohibits the city from spending funds or resources to enforce laws against their possession, cultivation, or use. The law does not legalize the sale or distribution of psilocybin, nor does it protect users from federal prosecution, as Santa Cruz is still subject to federal drug laws.
In September 2020, Ann Arbor became the fourth city in the US to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms, following a unanimous vote by the city council. The resolution, which applies to all “entheogenic plants and fungi,” including psilocybin, ayahuasca, and iboga, makes the investigation and arrest of such plants the city’s lowest law enforcement priority and prohibits the city from using its funds or resources to enforce laws against their possession, cultivation, or use. The law does not legalize the sale or distribution of psilocybin, nor does it protect users from federal prosecution, as Ann Arbor is still subject to federal drug laws.
What Is The Medical Potential Of Magic Mushrooms?
Despite their illegal status, magic mushrooms have been studied for their medical potential, particularly in the treatment of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, and end-of-life distress. The therapeutic use of psilocybin has been shown to produce positive outcomes in several clinical trials and observational studies, indicating that it can be safe, effective, and well-tolerated when administered under proper supervision and in a supportive environment.
Some of the potential benefits of psilocybin therapy include:
- Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, both acutely and long-term;
- Increased psychological flexibility, meaning the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and perspectives;
- Enhanced emotional processing, meaning the capacity to deal with difficult emotions and memories in a constructive way;
- Improved quality of life and well-being, as reported by many participants in psilocybin studies;
- Spiritual or mystical experiences that can have long-lasting positive effects on one’s outlook and values.
Despite these promising findings, psilocybin therapy is still in the experimental stage, and more research is needed to establish its safety, efficacy, and optimal dose, duration, and setting. Moreover, the legal and regulatory barriers to conducting clinical trials with psilocybin make it difficult for researchers to obtain the necessary funding, licenses, and approvals, which slows down the progress of this field.
What Is The Cultural Significance Of Magic Mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms have been used for centuries by indigenous cultures in different parts of the world for their spiritual and healing properties. In many societies, mushrooms are considered sacred and are used in rituals and ceremonies to connect with nature, ancestors, and higher powers, and to gain insight, guidance, and wisdom. The use of mushrooms has also been associated with artistic, intellectual, and social movements, such as the hippie counterculture of the 1960s and the psychedelic renaissance of the 21st century.
The recent changes in laws and policies regarding magic mushrooms reflect a growing recognition of their potential benefits and a shift away from the punitive and moralistic approach to drug policy. By decriminalizing or legalizing magic mushrooms, advocates hope to reduce harm, stigma, and discrimination associated with drug use, and to promote education, research, and cultural dialogue around these substances. However, the road to full acceptance and integration of magic mushrooms into mainstream culture is still long and uncertain, as many challenges, such as public opinion, corporate interests, and political opposition, remain.
Conclusion
Magic mushrooms are a fascinating and controversial topic in the US, as they represent both a source of hope and a source of fear for many people. While some states and cities have taken steps to decriminalize or legalize magic mushrooms, the federal government still classifies them as illegal drugs, which creates legal, medical, and cultural barriers to their full exploration and utilization. As more research and advocacy efforts are conducted, it is likely that the status of magic mushrooms will continue to evolve, and that we will learn more about their potential benefits and risks for individuals and society. Regardless of their legal status, however, magic mushrooms will remain a subject of curiosity, fascination, and wonder for many people who seek to expand their minds, hearts, and spirits.
