State Representative Richard West (R) introduced House Bill 829 in the Missouri legislature today, proposing a pathway for veterans to legally access psilocybin therapy under tightly regulated conditions.
Dried psilocybin mushrooms. (Photo credit: Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite).
The bill, aimed at supporting alternative treatments for mental health challenges, has been referred for further consideration.
HB 829 establishes a framework allowing veterans aged 21 and older to acquire, possess, and use psilocybin if they suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, substance use disorders, or are receiving end-of-life care. To qualify, veterans must participate in a research study, obtain documentation from a physician, and work with a trained facilitator, such as a healthcare professional meeting specific qualifications. Additionally, psilocybin would need to be tested by a state-licensed laboratory, and use would be capped at 150 milligrams annually.
The bill includes robust legal protections for healthcare providers, facilitators, and participants, ensuring they cannot face criminal or civil penalties for engaging in psilocybin therapy within the outlined parameters. It also directs the Missouri Department of Mental Health to conduct ongoing research on psilocybin’s efficacy, with quarterly and annual reporting requirements, while safeguarding participant confidentiality.
HB 829 reflects growing interest in alternative therapies for mental health conditions, particularly among veterans. With its focus on rigorous oversight and research, the bill offers a cautiously progressive approach to exploring psilocybin as a therapeutic option in Missouri.
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