Bill > S00495

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the medical use of psilocybin in New York State, creating a new legal pathway for psilocybin-assisted therapy. The legislation defines psilocybin as a naturally occurring psychedelic compound and sets up a robust regulatory system that includes creating a psilocybin-assisted therapy grant program, establishing a thirteen-member advisory board, and developing a naturally grown medical psilocybin pilot program. The bill provides protections for patients, practitioners, and facilitators, ensuring they cannot be prosecuted or penalized for participating in certified medical psilocybin treatments. It includes provisions for certification of facilitators, who must complete a specialized course, and mandates that psilocybin treatments occur in clinical settings under professional supervision. The legislation also creates a dedicated grant program to provide funding for psilocybin-assisted therapy for veterans, first responders, retired first responders, and low-income individuals, with an initial appropriation of $5 million. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health to conduct research, evaluate the program's effectiveness, and submit biennial reports to the governor and legislature, demonstrating a careful and systematic approach to introducing this innovative medical treatment.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S495