Legislation to create a program for the medicinal use of psilocybin was introduced today in the New Mexico Senate.
Dried psilocybin mushrooms.
Senate Bill 219, the Medical Psilocybin Act, would allow those in New Mexico to receive psilocybin-assisted treatment for certain behavioral health conditions, including major treatment-resistant depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, end-of-life care, and other conditions approved by the Department of Health.
“When we’re facing epidemic levels of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other debilitating mental health conditions, we owe it to those suffering to explore promising new treatments like psilocybin,” says State Representative Elizabeth Thomson (D). “By establishing a highly regulated, state-run program, we can provide alternative options to those not responding to traditional treatment, in a safe, controlled environment.”
The bill would establish an advisory board, a treatment equity fund, and a research fund while also removing psilocybin from the state’s Controlled Substances Act to protect “qualified and registered patients, clinicians and producers,” according to a news release from Senate and House Democrats.
If enacted, the program would be available by Dec. 31, 2027.
Senator Craig Brandt (R), a cosponsor to the bill, expressed optimism that psilocybin treatment could benefit his “fellow veterans” struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions.
Sponsors introduced SB 219 on Thursday, and it will be presented in the Senate Tax, Business & Transportation Committee.
