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Bill > H1624


MA H1624

Establishing a task force to study equitable access to psilocybin and other entheogenic plants


summary

Introduced
02/27/2025
In Committee
02/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

194th General Court

Bill Summary

For legislation to establish an interagency task force to study the public health and social justice implications of legalizing the possession, consumption, transportation, and distribution of naturally cultivated entheogenic plants and fungi. The Judiciary.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a comprehensive 21-member interagency task force to study the potential legalization and implications of psilocybin and other naturally cultivated entheogenic plants and fungi (psychoactive substances used in traditional and ceremonial practices). The task force will include representatives from various government agencies, mental health professionals, advocacy groups, academic experts, and tribal representatives, with members appointed by legislative leadership and state officials. The task force's extensive responsibilities include reviewing scientific research on the physiological and psychological effects of these substances, examining harm reduction strategies from various U.S. cities and international jurisdictions, investigating the impact of controlled substance prohibitions on marginalized communities, studying the historical and cultural origins of substance prohibition, and developing recommendations for legalizing and decriminalizing entheogenic plants in Massachusetts. Specifically, the task force will explore ways to maximize equitable access, create public education strategies, develop recommendations for pardons and criminal record expungement, and consider public testimony from Massachusetts residents affected by current drug policies. The task force is required to file a comprehensive report with legislative recommendations by June 2026, potentially paving the way for significant policy changes regarding entheogenic substances in the state.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Senate concurred (on 02/27/2025)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location
State Bill Page https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1624
BillText https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1624.pdf
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