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by WICS/WCCU
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — A State Senator filed legislation in Illinois that would legalize psilocybin for adult-supervised use in a licensed service center.
The legislation, known as the CURE ACT (Compassionate Use and Research of Entheogens Act), aims to tackle treatment-resistant conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions.
In 2021, Oregon became the first state to legalize adult use of psilocybin through a ballot initiative. In November 2022, Colorado voters approved a ballot measure, making Colorado the second state in the nation to approve a state-regulated program for legal access to psilocybin therapies. Earlier this year, the Indiana Senate committee passed a medical psilocybin research bill.
Senate Bill 3695 would not allow for the sale, use, or personal possession of psilocybin in Illinois.
"At the current pace, demand for therapeutic psychedelic experiences and retreats is far outpacing the supply of psychedelic guides, therapists, and practitioners. We are asking that lawmakers in Illinois not let unnecessary barriers stand in the way of safe, compassionate access and quality assurance for psychedelic healing,” said Jean Lacy, founder of the Illinois Psychedelic Society. “Illinois has the opportunity to be a standard-setter for other states, creating training centers, developing standards of care, and providing a model for other states to follow. Illinois' mental health crisis is growing and there are serious consequences to withholding these medicines from those who need it."
The bill would also establish the Illinois Psilocybin Advisory Board under the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation which would create a training program, ethical standards, and licensing requirements.
Senate Bill 3695 was filed Friday Feb 9th, and awaits committee assignment.