Massachusetts Moves to Legalize Psychedelics: Question 4 Sparks Heated Debate Over Safety and Potential Benefits

Massachusetts could soon legalize plant-based psychedelic drugs if a recently proposed measure, known as Question 4, is passed. Set to take effect on December 15, the law would make Massachusetts the third state to allow supervised use of psychedelics, joining Oregon and Colorado.

The proposed law, summarized by the state attorney, would permit individuals aged 21 and over to grow, possess, and use certain natural psychedelic substances under specific conditions. These substances include psilocybin and psilocin (from mushrooms) and dimethyltryptamine, mescaline, and ibogaine (from plants). Preliminary research suggests these compounds could be beneficial for treating conditions like addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

If enacted, the law would allow these psychedelics to be purchased at licensed outlets under the guidance of trained facilitators. Retail sales would be otherwise prohibited, but individuals could grow these plants at home within a designated 12×12-foot area. A Natural Psychedelic Substances Commission, along with a 20-member advisory board, would oversee the program and offer guidance.

Supporters argue that the measure could provide new treatment options for those with mental health conditions unresponsive to traditional therapies. Lieutenant Sarko Gergerian, a peace officer and mental-health counselor, advocates for the measure, saying, “Vote YES on 4 to provide safe, regulated access to promising natural psychedelic medicines for treatment-resistant PTSD, anxiety, and depression… Psychedelics will be available in approved therapeutic settings under the supervision of trained and licensed facilitators.”

However, opponents raise concerns about safety and potential public health risks. Dr. Anahita Dua, a surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, warns that ibogaine has toxic effects that can lead to heart failure. She also highlights the lack of requirements for distribution centers to be run by medical professionals and the potential risks for high-risk individuals, including those with certain mental health conditions.

Even if passed, the measure may face challenges in implementation. Oregon’s experience, where nearly 70 percent of counties opted out after legalization, suggests Massachusetts might encounter similar resistance.