California Gov. Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill that aimed to decriminalize the possession and personal use of certain natural psychedelics, including “magic mushrooms.” Newsom expressed support for exploring the mental health benefits of psychedelic medicines but emphasized the need to establish regulations before legalization. The governor called for the implementation of treatment guidelines, dosing information, and therapeutic rules to ensure safe and responsible use. Despite the veto, the bill’s author, Sen. Scott Wiener, pledged to reintroduce legislation focused on the therapeutic use of these substances in the future. The veto reflects growing challenges faced by Newsom in the midst of a homelessness and drug addiction crisis in California.
Critics of the bill, including law enforcement groups and medical professionals skeptical of psychedelics, raised concerns over public safety and the potential for increased unsupervised and dangerous use. Dr. Anna Lembke, a professor at Stanford, expressed worry that decriminalization would normalize the use of mind-altering drugs, leading to more extensive and harmful consumption. Opponents also highlighted the limited research on the health consequences of psychedelic usage and the unpredictable nature of these substances. Despite Newsom’s veto, some cities in California, such as Santa Cruz and Oakland, have independently implemented their own laws to make the possession and use of psychedelics a low-priority offense for law enforcement.
Newsom’s rejection of the bill represents a departure from his previous support for drug policy reform, such as his advocacy for the legalization of recreational marijuana in California. However, the governor’s decision reflects the complex and multifaceted challenges faced by the state, including a rising homelessness crisis and drug addiction issues. As the debate surrounding the decriminalization of psychedelics continues, proponents will need to address concerns about safety, education, and regulation to build broader support for their cause.
