Vermont Lawmakers Pass Psychedelic Therapy Task Force Bill, Awaiting Governor’s Approval

Vermont’s House of Representatives has taken a significant step toward exploring the therapeutic potential of psychedelics by passing a bill aimed at creating a psychedelic-assisted therapy working group. The legislation, known as S.114, has now moved closer to the governor’s desk following its approval in the House.

Legislative Progression and Key Amendments

The bill, initially passed by the Senate in March, underwent revisions in the House before its recent passage. Notable amendments included directing the Vermont Psychological Association to collaborate with the state Department of Health in providing support to the proposed working group. While the Senate’s version of the bill initially included provisions for legalizing psilocybin, these were removed in favor of focusing solely on establishing the therapeutic working group.

Voices in Support and Personal Testimony

While discussion on the House floor was relatively limited, Representative Tristan Roberts shared his personal experience with psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing its transformative impact on his mental health. Roberts highlighted the profound benefits he derived from such therapy, underscoring its potential to address deeply rooted traumas and improve overall well-being.

Amendments and Scrutiny

The bill saw additional amendments during its journey through the legislative process, with Representative Anne Donahue introducing changes aimed at refining the composition and focus of the proposed working group. These amendments included the removal of task force members representing specific organizations and the elimination of certain evaluation criteria related to the criminalization of psychedelics.

Governor’s Stance and Policy Implications

Governor Phil Scott’s stance on the bill remains uncertain, particularly in light of his previous veto of a similar measure pertaining to overdose prevention centers. Despite recent legislative advancements in psychedelics reform, challenges persist in securing gubernatorial support for such initiatives.

National and State-Level Psychedelics Reform Efforts

Vermont’s legislative progress aligns with broader trends in psychedelics reform across the United States. From Alaska to New York, state lawmakers are increasingly considering measures to legalize, regulate, and study the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Meanwhile, federal agencies such as the FDA and VA are exploring avenues for research and potential approval of psychedelic-assisted therapies.

Future Outlook and Federal Considerations

While there are currently no federally approved psychedelic medicines, recent developments indicate growing interest and momentum in this field. With ongoing congressional discussions and federal agency initiatives, the landscape of psychedelic research and policy could undergo significant transformations in the near future.

Vermont’s passage of the psychedelics working group bill marks a significant milestone in the state’s exploration of alternative therapeutic approaches. As the legislation awaits further deliberation and potential approval from Governor Scott, its implications extend beyond Vermont’s borders, contributing to broader conversations surrounding psychedelics reform and mental health care in the United States.