New Mexico Senate Endorses Study on Therapeutic Use of Psilocybin

LOS ANGELES- In a remarkable show of bipartisan unity, the New Mexico Senate has unanimously passed a non-binding resolution urging the state’s Department of Health to consider the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin mushrooms. The move underscores an increasing interest among lawmakers in the medicinal prospects of psychedelic substances, traditionally sidelined from mainstream medical discourse.

Last week, the Senate called on the Department of Health to “study the efficacy of using psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic treatments and the establishment of a program for psilocybin mushrooms to be used for therapeutic medical treatments,” as reported by Marijuana Moment. This initiative, spearheaded by Senate Minority Whip Craig Brandt, a Republican, and Democratic Sen. Jeff Steinborn, received overwhelming support, culminating in a unanimous 37-0 vote.

The resolution highlights the growing body of research suggesting psilocybin’s potential in treating depression and addiction, echoing sentiments from a 2023 FDA guidance that has paved the way for further research into psychedelic therapies. Although the resolution itself mandates no immediate action, it represents a significant nod towards exploring alternative treatments in the mental health arena.

Sen. Jeff Steinborn remarked on the promising findings surrounding psilocybin, noting its potential as a viable alternative to conventional antidepressants and other medications fraught with severe side effects. “It turns out that medical mushrooms, psilocybin, has proven to be medically efficacious for the use of major behavioral health issues. It can help alleviate and be an alternative to major anti-depressant drugs and probably other drugs that have serious side effects and can bring real relief to New Mexicans,” Steinborn conveyed through Marijuana Moment.

This legislative gesture follows a previous attempt by the New Mexico House Health and Human Services Committee, which passed a similar bill last year advocating for the exploration of a psilocybin therapy program. However, that proposal did not progress further.

The unanimous approval of this resolution by the New Mexico Senate marks a significant step towards acknowledging and integrating alternative therapeutic methods into the healthcare system, potentially offering new hope for individuals grappling with depression and addiction. As research continues to unfold, the path towards the acceptance of psilocybin and similar substances in medical treatment seems increasingly paved with legislative and scientific support.