Massachusetts voters are gearing up to decide on Question 4, which could make plant-based psychedelics the new yoga for your brain. If this passes, folks 21 and older could legally trip the light fantastic at licensed therapy centers. A new regulatory commission would be established, and the cultivation and sale of these mind-benders would be allowed—careful, though, Uncle Sam still says they’re a no-go.
Proponents say these psychedelics could be the mental health superheroes we’ve been waiting for, backed by promising research. Detractors, though not specified here, likely aren’t thrilled. If the vote swings in favor, expect the first therapy centers to open in 2026, and personal possession and a little home gardening would be decriminalized. Key dates to note: Apply to vote by mail by Oct. 29, early voting runs from Oct. 19 to Nov. 1, and Election Day is on Nov. 5.
Critics, like Chris Keohan from the Coalition for Safe Communities, warn that this could turn your neighborhood into a psychedelic jungle, with a black market blooming like magic mushrooms in cow patties. Currently, growing your psychedelic garden up to 144 square feet is a go, but Keohan argues it favors corporate fat cats over public well-being. He’s also worried about the commission turning into another Cannabis Control Commission disaster, which is already a hot mess of suspensions, workplace drama, and snail-paced regulations. Adam Chapdelaine of the Massachusetts Municipal Association adds that another unelected commission might just be a recipe for psychedelic pandemonium.
So, if you’re in Massachusetts, mark your calendars and decide if you want to journey through the looking glass—or keep things as they are.
Published Date: 2024-09-20