Mass. voters to decide on legalizing some psychedelic drugs
Oct 29, 2024
(WPRI) — Voters in Massachusetts will be deciding whether or not to legalize some psychedelic drugs on Election Day.
A "yes" vote on Question 4 would allow people over the age of 21 to use certain psychedelic substances under licensed supervision and to grow or possess limited amounts of those drugs. A commission would also be created to regulate the substances.
MORE: What are the 2024 ballot questions for Massachusetts?
Advocates say when paired with therapy, the drugs can help veterans treat conditions like PTSD and depression. On the other hand, the measure is facing strong opposition from some doctors who are warning about the potential dangerous impacts of the drugs.
Dr. Jhilam Biswas, the president-elect of the Massachusetts Psychiatric Society, thinks there is not enough research yet to legalize the drugs.
"There is some early promising research happening in psychedelic medicines, but it's not at the point where we have data on long-term benefits," Biswas explained. "We do know there are adverse events that occur when people are on psychedelic medications."
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Emily Oneschuk is a grassroots campaign director and Navy veteran who has used psychedelics to help with her own mental health after leaving the military.
"People that keep saying ... 'We need, we want more research, we want more research.' We could be saying that for the next 10, 20, 30 years," Oneschuck said. "If we could address the mental health crisis with the tools we currently have, we would have addressed it already."
If Question 4 passes, the commission that's created would be responsible for setting rules around licensing, training and safety requirements.
The law would take effect on Dec. 15.
NEXT: How to see your sample ballot in RI, Mass.
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