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Hobbs Vetoes Magic Mushroom Bill but Approves Conditional MDMA Use for PTSD in Arizona


Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has vetoed Senate Bill 1570, which aimed to regulate and license psilocybin-assisted therapy centers, citing concerns over its potential risks and lack of scientific support. At the same time, she has signed a bill allowing MDMA (ecstasy) for PTSD treatment, contingent on FDA approval.


Governor Hobbs' recent actions on psychedelic substances illustrate a nuanced approach to emerging therapies. On one hand, her veto of SB1570 keeps psilocybin (commonly known as magic mushrooms) out of reach for those seeking alternative treatments for PTSD, depression, and hospice care. Psilocybin remains classified as a Schedule I substance by the DEA, meaning it is considered to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.


Proponents of SB1570 highlighted a growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of psilocybin. During legislative committee hearings, advocates pointed to studies showing significant relief for individuals suffering from severe mental health conditions where conventional treatments have failed. Despite these testimonies, Governor Hobbs expressed concerns about the risks and insufficient scientific backing, leading to her decision to veto the bill.


Without this legislation, those who might benefit from psilocybin therapy remain without a legal option for accessing the substance. This decision underscores the ongoing tension between emerging scientific research and regulatory caution.


The research into psilocybin's therapeutic potential will continue in Arizona, supported by $5 million in funding allocated in the previous fiscal year. This research, overseen by the Arizona Psilocybin Research Advisory Council, aims to provide the robust scientific evidence Governor Hobbs seeks. There is hope that future findings might change the legislative landscape for psilocybin in Arizona.


In contrast to her stance on psilocybin, Governor Hobbs signed SB1677, which conditionally approves the use of MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy or molly) for PTSD treatment. This approval is contingent on the FDA's anticipated decision this fall. Should the FDA greenlight MDMA for therapeutic use, Arizona would authorize workers' compensation coverage for MDMA treatment for firefighters and law enforcement officers under specific conditions.


Governor Hobbs' decisions reflect a cautious yet open-minded approach to psychedelic therapy. While she halted the immediate progress of psilocybin therapy, she left the door open for future advancements based on scientific research. Meanwhile, her conditional approval of MDMA treatment signals a willingness to embrace novel therapies for PTSD, pending federal validation.


Do You Think Psilocybin Should Be Legalized for Therapeutic Use in Arizona?

  • Yes, based on existing research.

  • No, it needs more scientific backing.

  • I'm undecided, need more information.



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