New York Bill Proposes Legalizing Psilocybin Service Centers for Supervised Psychedelic Sessions

A top New York lawmaker, Assembly Health Committee Chair Amy Paulin (D), has introduced a bill to legalize psilocybin service centers where adults could access the psychedelic in a medically supervised setting. This move is part of a broader trend of psychedelics reform initiatives emerging across various states.

Objectives of the Legislation

The bill aims to promote public health and safety by establishing a comprehensive framework for regulated adult use, support services, and cultivation of psilocybin-containing fungi. It envisions the Department of Health regulating the program, licensing psilocybin cultivators, and certifying facilities to provide psychedelic services to adults.

Provisions of the Bill

The bill includes an extensive list of conditions eligible for treatment with psilocybin, with eligibility not limited to those conditions.

Individuals would undergo a health screening before participating in psilocybin services.

Unauthorized use, cultivation, and sale of psilocybin would be treated as a violation under state statute, with reduced penalties of a maximum $250 fine and up to 15 days in jail.

Establishment of a Regulated Psilocybin Advisory Board to advise and issue recommendations related to the program.

Development of a tax scheme for businesses offering psilocybin services, with taxes covering administrative costs.

Legislative Process

The bill has been referred to the Assembly Health Committee, chaired by the sponsor, Amy Paulin. Lawmakers are optimistic about the legislation’s prospects, highlighting the urgency of addressing mental health needs.

Broader Context of Psychedelics Policy in New York

Assembly member Pat Burke (D) is sponsoring a separate bill for a psilocybin therapy pilot program.

Another measure introduced by Burke would allow psilocybin treatment from certified facilitators in clinical settings or at home for those unable to travel.

New York lawmakers have also explored legalizing certain psychedelics for adults and creating statewide overdose prevention center pilot programs.

The proposed legislation reflects a growing acknowledgment of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure safe access. With New York joining the broader movement for psychedelics reform, the state is poised to address mental health challenges more effectively.