California Initiative to Decriminalize Magic Mushrooms Gains Momentum
California's campaign to decriminalize magic mushrooms gains approval to collect signatures, aiming for a 2025 implementation if successful
Key Points
- 1California's Secretary of State approves magic mushroom decriminalization campaign
- 2The initiative would allow medical, therapeutic, and recreational use for adults 21+
- 3Nearly 547,000 signatures needed to qualify for the ballot
- 4Previous attempts were hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic
- 5If passed, the measure would take effect in 2025
In a significant move towards drug policy reform, California's Secretary of State has approved a campaign to decriminalize magic mushrooms, allowing the initiative to begin collecting signatures for a potential ballot measure. This effort aims to legalize the use of psilocybin mushrooms for medical, therapeutic, religious, spiritual, and recreational purposes for individuals aged 21 and over. If successful, the initiative would also establish a framework for retail sales, with local jurisdictions retaining the power to impose restrictions
The campaign seeks to gather nearly 547,000 signatures to qualify for the ballot. This marks the third attempt by campaign director Ryan Munevar and his team to push this initiative forward, with previous efforts hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Munevar expressed optimism this time, noting the robust volunteer force of 3,200 individuals mobilized across the state to collect signatures
Under the proposed initiative, there would be no possession limits for psilocybin mushrooms, and medical or therapeutic use would be exempt from taxation. However, recreational sales would incur standard sales taxes. The measure also includes provisions for expunging criminal records related to mushroom use on a case-by-case basis, reflecting a broader trend towards criminal justice reform in drug policy
California's move follows similar initiatives in Oregon and Colorado, where psilocybin has already been decriminalized. The state is witnessing a growing legislative effort to reform psychedelic drug laws, with several cities like Oakland and Santa Cruz having already taken steps to decriminalize psilocybin at the local level. This state-wide initiative aims to create a comprehensive legal framework for psilocybin use
If the campaign succeeds, the measure would take effect in 2025, positioning California alongside other states at the forefront of psychedelic reform in the U.S. This initiative reflects a broader national trend, with similar legislative efforts observed in states like Washington, Michigan, New York, and New Jersey. The success of this initiative could catalyze further reforms and set a precedent for other states considering similar measures