DC considering proposal to decriminalize hallucinogenic mushrooms

Local officials in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday will hear presentations on a proposed ballot measure that would decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms.

For a measure to appear on a ballot in the District, several hoops must be jumped through, the biggest being the D.C. Board of Elections. An independent government body, the board is solely responsible for determining whether initiatives can advance to a city-wide vote.

According to The Washington Post, the proposal would make growing and selling psychedelics “among the lowest law enforcement priorities.” Specifically, it would apply to plants and fungus that contain ibogaine, mescaline, psilocybin and other chemicals.

Supporters of the measure say that chemicals such as psilocybin, a hallucinogen, have been shown to help with addiction, PTSD, depression and other mental health problems.

“Practices with entheogenic plants and fungi have longs [sic] existed, have been considered sacred to a number of cultures and religions for millennia and continue to be enhanced and improved,” a report submitted to the board said. “Citizens of the District of Columbia seeking to improve their health and well-being through the use of entheogenic plants and fungi currently use them in fear of arrest and prosecution.”

If the Board of Elections deems the initiative viable, supporters of the proposal would then petition signatures after a challenge period, the Post reports.