Michael Davis
In 2020, the District of Columbia decriminalized psilocybin with DC Initiative 81, becoming one of the first US jurisdictions to do so. This initiative, also known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020, makes arrests for the possession or use of natural psychedelics, including magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline, the lowest priority for DC police. While Initiative 81 does not override the law prohibiting the buying and selling of psilocybin mushrooms, it has made access to and consumption of magic mushrooms in DC much simpler. This has led to an increase in the popularity of magic mushrooms, with many DC residents taking advantage of the decriminalization and the unique psychedelic experience it offers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Status of mushrooms in DC | Decriminalized |
| Date of decriminalization | March 15, 2021 |
| Name of initiative | Initiative 81 |
| Other names for the initiative | Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020 |
| Substances covered by the initiative | Psilocybin drugs, magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, mescaline |
| Priority of arrests for possession or use | Lowest for DC police |
| Buying and selling of mushrooms | Not legal |
| Gifting of mushrooms | Allowed |
| Availability of mushrooms | Available through gifting shops and dispensaries |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms are decriminalised in DC, but not legal
In 2020, the District of Columbia decriminalized psilocybin with DC Initiative 81, becoming one of the first US jurisdictions to do so. This initiative, also known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020, makes arrests for the possession or use of natural psychedelics, including magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline, the lowest priority for DC police.
While this initiative decriminalizes certain psychedelics, it is important to note that it does not override federal or local laws that prohibit the buying and selling of psilocybin mushrooms. Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, which means it is considered to have "no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." As such, the use, sale, and possession of psilocybin mushrooms remain illegal under federal law, except for clinical research.
The decriminalization of psilocybin in DC reflects a growing movement across the United States to study, decriminalize, or legalize mushrooms and other psychedelics. More than a dozen cities have deprioritized or decriminalized psilocybin in recent years, and there are active movements in over two dozen states advocating for similar measures. Proponents of decriminalization cite research suggesting that psilocybin is non-addictive and has potential therapeutic benefits for treating mental health issues such as treatment-resistant depression, nicotine dependence, and chronic pain.
While magic mushrooms are decriminalized in DC, it is essential to understand the distinction between decriminalization and legalization. Decriminalization means that law enforcement will not prioritize arrests or prosecution for possession or use, but it does not make the substance legal. Buying and selling psilocybin mushrooms may still violate federal and local laws, and individuals could potentially face legal consequences if found in possession or using these substances. Therefore, while magic mushrooms are decriminalized in DC, they are not legal, and individuals should remain cautious and informed about the specific laws and regulations in their jurisdiction.
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The Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020
In 2020, the District of Columbia passed Initiative 81, also known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020. This act came into effect on March 15, 2021, and decriminalized psilocybin drugs, including magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline. While the act does not override the federal law that prohibits the buying and selling of psilocybin mushrooms, it makes arrests for their possession or use the lowest priority for DC police. This means that law enforcement resources can be redirected from policing private psychedelic usage to higher priorities, such as violent crime.
The passage of the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020 has made it easier for individuals in DC to access and consume magic mushrooms. Dispensaries and gifting shops have emerged to meet the demand for these products, offering a variety of options, including fresh mushrooms, edibles, and mushroom-infused teas and chocolates. However, despite the decriminalization, there is still some ambiguity surrounding the legality of mushroom possession and consumption, and many individuals remain cautious about where and how to obtain them.
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The potential health benefits of psilocybin
In the United States, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms", is federally classified as a Schedule I controlled substance with "no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse". However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, and its ability to treat various psychiatric disorders.
Psilocybin has been found to have potential benefits in treating mental health issues, addictions, and other psychological disorders. Here are some specific examples:
Depression and Anxiety: Multiple clinical trials have shown that psilocybin, when administered in conjunction with psychotherapy, can effectively reduce symptoms of depression, including in people with treatment-resistant depression. It has also been found to produce substantial and sustained improvements in anxiety.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Psilocybin has been explored as a potential treatment for PTSD, particularly in veterans.
Cancer-Related Distress: Studies have shown that psilocybin therapy can improve the emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of patients with life-threatening cancer, providing an alternative means of treating cancer-related anxiety and depression.
Alcohol Use Disorder and Other Addictions: Psilocybin is being investigated for its potential in treating alcohol use disorder and other addictions, such as nicotine dependence.
Enhanced Psychotherapy: Psilocybin may enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy by making the brain more flexible and receptive to new ideas and thought patterns, which can be beneficial for patients with anxiety and depression.
While the potential health benefits of psilocybin are promising, it is important to note that it should be used in controlled and safe settings, preferably under the supervision of trained mental health professionals.
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The rise in popularity of psychedelics in the US
In 2010, there were approximately 32 million lifetime psychedelic users in the US, including 17% of people aged 21 to 64 years (22% of males and 12% of females). The rate of lifetime psychedelic use was greatest among people aged 30 to 34 years (20% in total, 26% of males and 15% of females).
Psychedelics are gaining popularity in the US, with movements in over two dozen states to study, decriminalize, or legalize mushrooms and other psychedelics. In 2020, Oregon became the first state to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize its supervised use. In the same year, voters in Washington, D.C. approved a ballot initiative that made growing, purchasing, and distributing mushrooms the lowest law enforcement priority for D.C. police. Since then, over a dozen cities nationwide have deprioritized or decriminalized psychedelics, including Denver, Colorado, Somerville, Massachusetts, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Seattle, Washington, and Arcata, California.
The rise in popularity is partly due to the therapeutic use of psychedelic substances, with research suggesting that psilocybin can be used to treat treatment-resistant depression, nicotine dependence, anxiety, anorexia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, severe headaches, and addiction to smoking, cocaine, alcohol, and other substances. The Department of Veterans Affairs is also conducting clinical trials with psilocybin to treat mental health issues.
In addition, microdosing has become a popular trend, with people taking small amounts of psychedelics to sharpen the mind, increase creativity, or reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. This practice is especially common in the California tech scene and media circles in Washington, D.C. However, it is important to note that the use, sale, and possession of psilocybin are still illegal under federal law, and it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance with "no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse."
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The different ways to consume magic mushrooms
In November 2020, the District of Columbia passed Initiative 81, also known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020. This initiative decriminalized psilocybin drugs, including magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline. While the possession or use of these substances is still illegal under federal law, the initiative made arrests for their possession or use the lowest priority for DC police.
Now, let's explore the different ways in which magic mushrooms are consumed:
Eating Raw Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms can be eaten raw, and different types have varying levels of potency. For example, the fly agaric mushroom is typically stronger than the liberty cap mushroom. Liberty caps, known for their earthy taste and rubber-like texture, are often consumed raw. However, fly agaric mushrooms are less commonly eaten raw due to their potential to cause sickness. It's worth noting that the taste of these mushrooms differs significantly from the mushrooms typically used in cooking. To mask the bitter taste, some people incorporate magic mushrooms into omelets or tea.
Dried Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms can also be consumed in a dried form. After picking, mushrooms like liberty caps are often dried and stored. Dried mushrooms can then be used to brew tea or other beverages.
Mushroom Tea
One of the most popular ways to consume magic mushrooms is by drinking psilocybin mushroom tea. This tea is made by steeping dried psilocybin mushrooms in hot water. The tea allows the user to ingest the psychedelic compounds psilocybin and psilocin, inducing altered states of consciousness and pleasurable feelings. The effects of mushroom tea typically last up to 6 hours, with the timeline varying depending on the amount consumed and individual physiology.
Baked Goods and Capsules
Magic mushrooms are also incorporated into baked goods, providing a discreet way to consume them. Additionally, they are available in pill form, making it convenient to ingest a precise dose.
Liquid Psilocybin
Liquid psilocybin is another method of consumption. It is created by extracting the psychedelic compound psilocybin from mushrooms like liberty caps. It is usually a clearish pale brown liquid and comes in small bottles or vials.
It is important to note that consuming magic mushrooms can lead to a range of effects, from mild hallucinations to intense paranoia and panic attacks. The strength of the mushrooms can vary, and it is challenging to predict the exact nature of the experience. As with any substance, it is crucial to approach magic mushroom consumption with caution and to understand the potential risks and side effects.
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Frequently asked questions
No, mushrooms are not illegal in DC. In 2020, the District of Columbia decriminalized psilocybin with DC Initiative 81, becoming one of the first US jurisdictions to do so.
DC Initiative 81, also known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020, decriminalizes psilocybin drugs, including magic mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline. It makes arrests for their possession or use the lowest priority for DC police.
Yes, in addition to Washington, D.C., more than a dozen cities nationwide have deprioritized or decriminalized mushrooms in the past five years. This includes Denver, Colorado, Washtenaw County, Michigan, Somerville, Massachusetts, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Northampton, Massachusetts, Seattle, Washington, Arcata, California, and Oregon.
