Bill > H4986

This bill establishes a five-site pilot program in Massachusetts for non-profit therapeutic centers offering psilocybin treatment for mental and physical health needs, with locations designated for western Massachusetts, central Massachusetts, the North Shore, the South Shore, and Metro Boston. The Department of Public Health, in consultation with an advisory board, will create rules and regulations for these centers, including a licensing process. Eligible applicants must be run by medical professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who are either trained facilitators with psilocybin experience or will undergo such training. Local health board approval is also required before applying for a license. Licensed centers must provide a safe treatment space supervised by medical professionals, adequate trained staff, education on psilocybin therapy, participant monitoring and first aid, referrals to other mental health services, staff training, security and safety procedures in coordination with local law enforcement, community communication plans, and an affordable pricing structure. Importantly, participants, staff, property owners, and the operating entity of licensed centers will be protected from arrest, prosecution, civil penalties, or disciplinary actions solely for their involvement with these centers, and entering or exiting such a center cannot be used as a basis for searches or seizures. The Department of Public Health will also report data on the pilot program's usage, referrals, patient outcomes, finances, and adverse events. Furthermore, an advisory committee, composed of various professionals, veterans, law enforcement, and individuals with lived experience, will advise the Department of Public Health on regulations and study the decriminalization of psilocybin for specific medical conditions, excluding certain mental health disorders.

Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Public Health (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4986