The movement to decriminalize psychedelics in the United States has made significant strides in recent years, reflecting a growing recognition of their potential therapeutic benefits[8]. These benefits, which are supported by a reevaluation of existing legal frameworks, include their use in treating mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD, as well as their potential to catalyze personal and spiritual growth[5]. This shift is evident in various cities and states adopting measures to reduce or eliminate penalties associated with the possession and use of substances like psilocybin mushrooms[23].

In May 2019, Denver, Colorado, made history by becoming the first U.S. city to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms through a narrowly approved ballot initiative[11,13]. This groundbreaking move, a result of a concerted grassroots campaign, underscored the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, particularly in treating mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD[24]. The campaign was bolstered by a growing body of research indicating the efficacy of substances like psilocybin and ayahuasca in treating these conditions and catalyzing personal and spiritual growth[5]. Following Denver's lead, several other cities adopted similar measures[23]. Oakland, California, decriminalized entheogenic plants and fungi in June 2019, with the city council unanimously passing a resolution influenced by this research[23]. Santa Cruz, California, followed suit in January 2020, further highlighting the growing momentum of the decriminalization movement[23].

While Oregon implemented state-level changes in 2020, the results have highlighted important lessons for other states considering psychedelic reform[2]. Oregon's Measure 109 created a system for supervised psilocybin use at licensed facilities, while Measure 110 decriminalized possession of small amounts of all drugs[2]. However, this approach has revealed significant challenges, particularly regarding financial accessibility[2]. The service model established in Oregon has proven to be financially out of reach for many average citizens, raising concerns about equitable access to these potential therapeutic benefits[2]. Colorado followed with a similar measure in 2022[17], though many advocates now emphasize the importance of pursuing decriminalization first, or ensuring that any service models are implemented as options in addition to decriminalization to prevent creating systems that limit access based on financial means[2].

The approaches to decriminalization have varied across jurisdictions[23]. Some cities have utilized ballot initiatives, allowing citizens to vote directly on the issue, while others have enacted changes through city council resolutions[23]. For example, Washington D.C.'s Initiative 81, approved by voters in November 2020, directed law enforcement to make the enforcement of laws against entheogenic plants and fungi among its lowest priorities[23]. This initiative, driven by grassroots advocacy, highlighted the integral role of community engagement in effecting policy change[23]. It made every citizen feel involved and integral to the process. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Psychedelics continue to be classified as Schedule I substances under federal law, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use[8]. This federal classification creates a complex legal landscape for states and municipalities that have pursued decriminalization or legalization[8]. Moreover, public perception and political opposition can pose significant hurdles. Concerns about public health and safety, as well as the potential for increased recreational use, are often cited by opponents of decriminalization efforts[8].

In navigating these challenges, successful decriminalization initiatives have The movement to decriminalize psychedelics in the United States has gained significant momentum in recent years, reflecting a growing recognition of their potential therapeutic benefits[8]. Research studies have provided mountains of evidence supporting the use of psychedelics, like psilocybin, in alleviating mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD[5]. Medical institutions like Johns Hopkins University and NYU have been leading the charge[5]. These studies have shown that controlled dosing under professional supervision can lead to significant improvements in mental health outcomes, fostering a new understanding of these substances[5]. In terms of legal evolution, there is an ongoing dialogue among lawmakers regarding the potential need to reform the federal Schedule I classification[8]. This might involve rescheduling psychedelics based on their therapeutic uses, as seen in the recent discussions around various state-level reforms[8]. Advocacy groups and researchers are actively engaged in lobbying for legislative change, which may lead to more comprehensive policies that align state and federal laws more closely in the future[8].

To ensure public safety and accountability in the supervised use of psychedelics for treatment, a combination of regulatory frameworks and oversight mechanisms are being proposed[8]. These measures could include mandatory training and certification for practitioners, standard operating procedures for clinics, and consistent data tracking on treatment outcomes and adverse effects[8]. Furthermore, guidelines are being developed to ensure that informed consent and post-session support are integral parts of the therapeutic process, fostering a responsible approach to the integration of psychedelics into mental health treatment protocols[8]. The movement to decriminalize psychedelics in the United States has gained significant momentum in recent years, reflecting a growing recognition of their potential therapeutic benefits[8]. Research studies, such as those conducted by medical institutions like Johns Hopkins University and NYU, have provided robust evidence supporting the use of psychedelics, like psilocybin, in alleviating mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD[5]. These studies have shown that controlled dosing under professional supervision can lead to significant improvements in mental health outcomes, fostering a new understanding of these substances[5].

In terms of legal evolution, there is an ongoing dialogue among lawmakers regarding the potential need to reform the federal Schedule I classification[8]. This might involve rescheduling psychedelics based on their therapeutic uses, as seen in the recent discussions around various state-level reforms[8]. Advocacy groups and researchers are actively involved in lobbying for legislative change, which may lead to more comprehensive policies that align state and federal laws more closely in the future, offering hope for a more unified approach to drug policy reform [8].

To ensure public safety and accountability in the supervised use of psychedelics for treatment, while also ensuring equitable access, a combination of regulatory frameworks and oversight mechanisms are being proposed[8]. These measures could include mandatory training and certification for practitioners, standard operating procedures for clinics, and consistent data tracking on treatment outcomes and adverse effects, all while maintaining a focus on affordability and accessibility for all communities[8]. Furthermore, guidelines are being developed to ensure that informed consent and post-session support are integral parts of the therapeutic process, fostering a responsible approach to the integration of psychedelics into mental health treatment protocols and emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and political advocacy[8].

Grassroots organizations have played a crucial role in mobilizing support and informing the public about the potential benefits and risks associated with psychedelics[23]. Educational campaigns have been instrumental in shifting public opinion and garnering support for policy changes[23]. For instance, in Denver, a review panel appointed by the City Council issued a report in November 2021 finding no significant negative impact of decriminalization on public safety[13]. The panel recommended training for first responders, public health education, data collection, and ongoing safety reporting, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to decriminalization that includes education and monitoring[13]. This responsible approach should reassure the audience about the careful consideration given to the decriminalization process.

In January 2025, the Tacoma City Council unanimously passed a resolution to deprioritize the enforcement of laws against entheogenic plants and fungi, including psilocybin mushrooms[10,12]. This decision reflects a growing recognition of the potential therapeutic benefits of these substances and aligns Tacoma with other progressive cities in the United States[20]. The resolution was championed by Councilmember Joe Bushnell, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who has been open about his personal experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)[14].

Bushnell emphasized the importance of exploring innovative approaches to mental health treatment, stating, "This resolution is a testament to our commitment to exploring innovative and compassionate approaches to mental health[14]." During the council meeting, numerous community members shared personal testimonies about how entheogens have positively impacted their lives[12]. Matt Metzger, a retired Marine Corps combat veteran, recounted his struggles with traditional pharmaceuticals to treat mental health conditions stemming from his service[12]. He described how psilocybin mushrooms provided profound healing, allowing him to reconnect with his family and live fully again[12]. Metzger now serves as a psychedelic wellness coach, focusing on harm reduction and safe, informed, and responsible use[12]. The Tacoma Psychedelic Society (TPS) played a pivotal role in advocating for this resolution[22]. Founded by licensed therapist Cole Schrim, TPS has been instrumental in educating the public and policymakers about the benefits of entheogens[14]. Schrim highlighted the collective effort behind the resolution, stating, "We had the collective voice of different stories of people wanting to live again because they found healing through psychedelics[14]."

The resolution does not authorize or enable the commercial manufacturing or sale of entheogenic plants or fungi[10]. Instead, it aims to shift law enforcement priorities and encourage further research into the therapeutic potential of these substances[10]. Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her support for decriminalization, stating, "I look forward to making sure that not only does Tacoma do this, but that Washington state does this for all of those of you who live in Tacoma, but for everyone who lives in this state[14]." This move by Tacoma aligns with a broader national trend toward reevaluating the legal status of entheogens, with a focus on decriminalization as a first step to ensure equitable access[23]. Cities like Seattle, Washington, D.C., and Denver have enacted similar measures, reflecting a growing recognition of the potential benefits of these substances for mental health treatment[23]. The Tacoma City Council's resolution represents a significant step forward in this movement, highlighting the city's commitment to innovative and compassionate approaches to mental health that remain accessible to all community members[10].

The movement to decriminalize psychedelics in the United States has encountered a range of challenges, both legal and political, that have shaped its trajectory[8]. One of the primary legal obstacles is the federal classification of many psychedelics as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970[8].

References: [2] "Is Recreational Mushroom Use Legal in Oregon? | Legal Guidelines" - Hotel St. Barbara – Tallinn – Estonia. https://stbarbara.ee/is-recreational-mushroom-use-legal-in-oregon-legal-guidelines/ [5] "Psychedelic Horizons Therapy beyond Conventional Approaches" - Prison vision. https://magazineblackmilk.com/health/psychedelic-horizons-therapy-beyond-conventional-approaches.html [8] Herkenham, K. (2023). "A Regulatory Framework Review of Schedule I Psychedelics in the United States." JACCP: Journal of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy. https://doi.org/10.1002/jac5.1841 [10] "City of Tacoma's Passage of Resolution 41609 Deprioritizes Local Enforcement Against Entheogen-Related Activities" https://www.cityoftacoma.org/in_the_news/city_of_tacoma_s_passage_of_resolution_41609_deprioritizes_local_enforcement_against_entheogen-_related_activities [11] "In Close Vote, Denver Becomes First U.S. City To Decriminalize Psychedelic Mushrooms" - NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/05/09/721660053/in-close-vote-denver-becomes-first-u-s-city-to-decriminalize-psychedelic-mushroo [12] "Tacoma City Council lowers enforcement priority for psilocybin, similar substances" - Northwest Public Broadcasting. https://www.nwpb.org/2025/01/30/tacoma-city-council-lowers-enforcement-priority-for-psilocybin-similar-substances/ [13] "Denver, Colorado, Initiated Ordinance 301, Psilocybin Mushroom Initiative (May 2019)" - Ballotpedia. https://ballotpedia.org/Denver%2C_Colorado%2C_Initiated_Ordinance_301%2C_Psilocybin_Mushroom_Initiative_%28May_2019%29 [14] "Tacoma makes psychedelics prosecution lowest priority" - Tacoma Weekly. https://tacomaweekly.com/city-makes-psychedelics-prosecution-lowest-priority-p9116-117.htm [17] "Colorado Proposition 122" - Colorado Legislature. https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/initiative%2520referendum_proposition%20122%20final%20lc%20packet.pdf [20] "Washington's Third Largest City Approves Psychedelics Decriminalization Policy" - Marijuana Moment. https://www.marijuanamoment.net/washingtons-third-largest-city-approves-psychedelics-decriminalization-policy/ [22] "Tacoma joins Seattle in making psychedelics law enforcement among lowest priorities" - Mugglehead. https://mugglehead.com/tacoma-joins-seattle-in-making-psychedelics-law-enforcement-among-lowest-priorities/ [23] "Psilocybin decriminalization in the United States" - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin_decriminalization_in_the_United_States [24] "Initiated Ordinance 301 on the 2019 Denver ballot: Decriminalizing psilocybin mushrooms" - Denverite. https://denverite.com/2019/03/15/initiated-ordinance-301-on-the-2019-denver-ballot-decriminalizing-psilocybin-mushrooms/