Oregon’s landmark decision to legalise psilocybin therapy in 2020 is facing increasing resistance, as more cities vote to ban the substance locally. Recent elections saw four more cities, ranging from Portland suburbs to rural areas, implementing permanent bans. This follows earlier temporary moratoriums and reflects a growing backlash despite psilocybin’s therapeutic promise for conditions like depression, trauma, and addiction. Confusion between the psilocybin programme and broader drug decriminalisation measures has only added to public scepticism, particularly after Oregon lawmakers rolled back a controversial law decriminalising small amounts of hard drugs earlier this year.
High costs also present a significant hurdle. A single psilocybin therapy session can cost up to $2,000, making it out of reach for many. The expenses stem from licensing and operational costs, which service centres must pass on to clients. Advocates like MJ Wilt, who opened a licensed centre in Gresham, argue that the financial burden severely limits access to those who could benefit most. Misconceptions about psilocybin service centres—often confused with cannabis dispensaries—further complicate public understanding. Unlike shops where people buy products to use at home, psilocybin must be taken at the centre under expert supervision, making these places similar to mental health clinics.
These developments occur against the backdrop of a broader shift in the United States towards stricter drug policies. Measures to legalise recreational cannabis were rejected in three other states recently, and Massachusetts voters declined a proposal to allow psychedelic plant use under specific circumstances. Public wariness appears to stem from failed drug policy experiments and concerns about rising overdose deaths tied to substances like fentanyl.
Despite these challenges, psilocybin therapy remains accessible in over 30 licensed centres across Oregon, particularly in larger cities like Portland. Proponents argue that psilocybin offers a safe and effective alternative for individuals unresponsive to traditional treatments. Centres report overwhelmingly positive outcomes among their clients, yet progress is hindered by misinformation and financial barriers. While resistance grows, advocates hope increased research and education will shift public perception and ensure that psilocybin’s potential is not lost in the tide of policy retrenchment. They believe public trust will play a key role in deciding the future of drug policies in Oregon and other places.
Source: Oregon Live
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