Bill > HB5588

This bill, titled the "Therapeutic Psilocybin Act," establishes a regulated framework for the medical use of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other qualified medical conditions. The bill acknowledges the limitations of current PTSD treatments and highlights the potential of psilocybin, supported by research and anecdotal evidence, to improve mental health outcomes by promoting neuroplasticity and emotional processing. It outlines a comprehensive system involving licensed psilocybin production establishments (cultivation facilities and testing laboratories), registered qualified medical psilocybin providers who can recommend its use, and qualified therapy providers who administer it. The legislation details requirements for licensing, operational standards, safety protocols, inventory control systems, and agent registration, while also establishing a Psilocybin Production Establishment Licensing Board to oversee these processes. Importantly, the bill provides exemptions from federal law penalties for those participating in the regulated program and prohibits discrimination against patients using psilocybin for medical purposes, though it does not mandate insurance coverage. The Department of Health is tasked with developing and implementing the program, including establishing treatment protocols, safety measures, and data collection for program evaluation, with a mandate to study other psychedelic compounds for potential therapeutic use.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5588&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill