State Representative Linda Rosenthal, joined by eight cosponsors, introduced Assembly Bill A00628 today in the New York Legislature.
Mescaline (top left), ibogaine (top right), psilocybin mushrooms (bottom left), and DMT (bottom right).
The measure seeks to legalize the possession, use, and cultivation of certain natural plant- and fungus-based hallucinogens for those 21 and older. The bill has been referred to the Health and Social Services Committee for review.
If enacted, A00628 would legalize substances including psilocybin, psilocyn, DMT, mescaline, and ibogaine. These hallucinogens would be removed from New York’s list of schedule I controlled substances, making their use, cultivation, and sharing legal within defined parameters. The legislation includes broad protections for individuals and organizations engaging with these substances.
Key provisions of the bill prohibit employers from discriminating against employees for the legal use of hallucinogens outside of work hours. Additionally, the measure ensures that legal hallucinogen use cannot be the sole basis for restricting child custody, denying medical care, or initiating professional disciplinary actions. Religious organizations and non-commercial entities would also be permitted to use these substances for ceremonial, supportive, or religious purposes.
The legislation further restricts state and local authorities from cooperating with federal enforcement efforts targeting activities allowed under the proposed law. Local governments, however, would have the authority to establish their own regulations regarding these substances.
A00628 represents a significant step toward normalizing the use of natural hallucinogens in New York, aligning with similar reforms in other states. The bill’s fate will now depend on its progress through the legislative process.
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