FRCMedia is conducting interviews with those in favor and opposed to the five ballot questions in this year’s State Election. Today we focus on Question 4, decriminalizing and regulating the use of natural psychedelic substances.
You can watch the full interviews on our Election 2024 web page.
Passage of Question 4 would allow persons aged 21 and older to grow, possess, and use certain natural psychedelic substances, those found in some mushrooms and plants, in certain circumstances. It would allow for the growth, within a defined space, and the use of these substances in one’s home. A commission would be formed to regulate the industry. The substances would not be available for retail sale.
Mental health advocates are pushing for the passage of the measure, led by Massachusetts for Mental Health Options. Educational Outreach Director Graham Moore says the use of psychedelics has been proven, worldwide, to be of benefit for patients, like veterans, who are diagnosed with ailments such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). U.S. medical organizations are coming out in support and Oregon and Colorado have approved similar laws.
The Coalition for Safe Communities is organizing efforts asking residents to vote no. Spokesperson Chris Keohan says the group’s concerns lie with who will be authorized to dispense these psychedelic substances.
Mr. Keohan is also concerned about the provision to allow home growth of these substances and the potential for the creation of a black market along with endangering others who may become exposed.
Mr. Graham says the decriminalization of these substances already unofficially exists locally.
Other concerns for those looking to defeat the measure are the impacts taking these substances may have on impaired driving and the cost of purchasing them.
Mr. Graham says the use of psychedelics is not addictive with studies showing no increased instances of impaired driving.
