Colorado To Decriminalize Magic Mushrooms

Colorado could become the next state to decriminalize psychedelic mushroom use. The state would join a growing number of states beginning to decriminalize possession and use of magic mushrooms as alternative medicine. Oregon was the first state to decriminalize the use of psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms, to be distributed in regulated treatment centers and legalize the possession of such products.

• Related: Oregon Decriminalizes All Drugs, D.C. Decriminalizes Psychedelics, & 5 States Legalize Marijuana

The state is no stranger to breaking traditions regarding plant-based alternative medicine. In 2019 after efforts from local advocacy groups, the city of Denver decriminalized the use of as well as possession of psilocybin, the active psychedelic substance, for medicinal uses. The state was also one of the first to legalize marijuana for medicinal and personal use.  

The use of magic mushrooms as an alternative to traditional therapeutics has shown a lot of possibilities. Research shows that psilocybin can treat addiction, PTSD, OCD, depression, and even terminal illness anxiety. Not only that, but the drug is showing positive results in treating cancer-related depression and anxiety. 

Microdosing “shrooms” has shown positive results in mental function, like boosting creativity. When taken in minimal amounts, psilocybin can heighten your senses, boost energy, increase focus and reduce anxiety without impairing normal functions with a major trip. 

As the state begins to move forward drafting legislation to legalize these psychedelic drugs, there is division among advocates on how to go about it. While both sides recognize the medicinal and health benefits of decriminalizing mushroom use, they disagree on how much it should be regulated. Some believe that drug use should be monitored and distributed at regulated facilities. Strictly for medicinal use. Others believe that a person should be able to decide their spiritual journey without being criminalized. As of right now, underground dealers already guide those that want to partake. 

“While it might be politically viable to frame psychedelics as a treatment for serious mental health issues, that doesn’t account for the underground practitioners who have used psychedelics for decades and generations,” Nicole forester of Decriminalize Nature Boulder said in an interview. 

Advocate groups continue to work hard as drafts of legislation are being debated. Advocates that favor full decriminalization fear that state-led “healing centers” would create a plant-based medical system. This could lead to discrimination and not allow each individual the freedom to choose their journey. 

Others worry that these drugs could be abused if not regulated enough and were too easily accessible. Early drafts plan to legalize personal possession to under 4 grams. While a final piece of legislation has not been agreed upon, it is guaranteed Colorado voters will see it on the ballot in November.