Topline:
Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have decriminalized possession of some natural psychedelics, like "magic mushrooms," saying the state needs to establish regulations before they can be legalized. The bill would have also expanded research into the therapeutic use of psychedelics and mandated that findings and recommendations be brought forth to the Legislature.
Why it matters: Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco sponsored the bill, pointing out benefits drugs like psilocybin could bring to trauma victims from first responders to war veterans. Wiener called the veto a "missed opportunity for California to follow the science and lead."
Gov Newsom vetoed SB 58, our bill to decriminalize mushrooms & other naturally occurring psychedelics.
— Senator Scott Wiener (@Scott_Wiener) October 7, 2023
So for now, folks who benefit from these non-addictive substances remain classified as criminals under CA law.
Our fight is not over. We’ll be back with legislation next year. pic.twitter.com/Dehiz9mG0K
The backstory: Wiener has said that the bill would keep individuals who use psychedelics from getting grouped together with those who use other controlled substances like meth and heroin, arguing that psychedelics are non-addictive and contain therapeutic properties.
What's next: It's not the end of Wiener's fight. "I look forward to introducing therapeutic-focused legislation next year," he said in a statement.