Emily Johnson
As state lawmakers in California consider decriminalizing psychedelic mushrooms, some dispensaries in Los Angeles have been found to sell them illegally. Lt. Jay Moss of the Sheriff's Department's narcotics bureau commented that while these dispensaries usually keep the mushrooms out of view, they are commonly sold in L.A. County's unincorporated areas. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department served about 50 search warrants at dispensaries selling mushroom products in the past six months. However, despite the efforts of law enforcement, the illicit industry persists due to its lucrative nature. California lawmakers have expressed concerns about the potential negative consequences of decriminalization, while others argue that the potential benefits of mushroom use should be considered. If decriminalized, psilocybin mushrooms would be regulated as a foodstuff, and various entities could participate in the legal psilocybin marketplace.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | California, Los Angeles |
| Product | Psilocybin or "magic" mushrooms |
| Legality | Illegal, but decriminalization is being considered |
| Availability | Sold in some dispensaries, often not openly displayed |
| Form | Raw mushrooms, chocolate bars with pre-measured doses |
| Target Audience | Adults, not to be sold to minors |
| Taxation | May be subject to local sales taxes depending on the form |
| Law Enforcement Stance | Generally opposed to decriminalization |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms are sold in LA dispensaries
As California lawmakers consider decriminalizing magic mushrooms, some LA County cannabis dispensaries are openly selling them. Lt. Jay Moss of the Sheriff's Department's narcotics bureau confirmed that psychedelic mushrooms are commonly sold at dispensaries in the county's unincorporated areas. However, he noted that they are not typically openly displayed and customers need to ask for them.
Over multiple visits to two suburban dispensaries, a reporter from the Los Angeles Times did not witness the sale of any mushrooms or psilocybin-based products. However, they observed a jar filled with mushrooms, which had the characteristic bluish tint of psilocybin. They also saw mushroom-infused liquids and gummies containing a psychedelic "mushroom blend" in toadstool-shaped pouches. One customer expressed surprise at learning that the dispensary sold mushrooms, indicating that these sales may not be widely known or advertised.
While the state of California is considering eliminating criminal penalties for possessing small amounts of psychedelic mushrooms, the sale and possession of magic mushrooms in LA County currently exist in a legal grey area. The LA County Sheriff's Department has served numerous search warrants at dispensaries selling magic mushrooms, indicating that these establishments are operating in a precarious legal situation.
Despite the potential risks, some dispensary owners continue to sell magic mushrooms due to the lucrative nature of the business. The demand for these products is evident, with one employee stating that they ""sell quickly after we get them in. People really love them." As the state of California moves towards potential decriminalization, the future of magic mushroom sales in LA County remains uncertain but indicative of a growing acceptance of psychedelic substances.
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California lawmakers have decriminalised natural psychedelics
California lawmakers have approved a measure to decriminalize certain types of natural psychedelics in the state. The measure, which passed with a 21-14 vote in the state senate, sought to eliminate criminal penalties for possessing small amounts of psychedelic substances, including mushrooms. This move comes as California joins other states, such as Oregon and Colorado, in recognizing the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics in treating various mental illnesses, including post-traumatic stress disorder.
Despite the measure's passage in the state senate, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the bill, stating that more work needed to be done to establish regulated treatment guidelines before decriminalization could be implemented. Newsom's statement emphasized the importance of dosing information, therapeutic guidelines, and safeguards to prevent exploitation and ensure medical clearance. While this decision was met with disappointment from supporters of decriminalization, it highlights the complexities and cautious approach being taken by the state in navigating the potential risks and benefits of psychedelic use.
The discussion around decriminalizing psychedelics in California has been ongoing for several years, with cities like Oakland, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Berkeley taking the lead by decriminalizing natural psychedelics derived from plants and fungi. Additionally, Los Angeles dispensaries have been reported to sell 'magic mushrooms', even as the state weighed the decision to decriminalize such substances. This indicates a growing acceptance and demand for psychedelics, particularly among those seeking alternative treatments for mental health struggles.
Advocates of psychedelic decriminalization include veterans and health professionals who have spoken about the benefits of using psychedelics to treat trauma and other illnesses. They argue that people should not be arrested for using mushrooms when they may be gaining benefits from them. However, opponents express concerns about the potential unknown risks of these substances, particularly for children and young people, and worry that decriminalization could lead to increased accessibility for vulnerable populations.
While California has not yet fully decriminalized natural psychedelics, the conversation and efforts to do so remain active. Advocates are working to place initiatives on the ballot for voter consideration, and lawmakers continue to explore legislative proposals that could provide a more narrow and controlled approach to psychedelic use, particularly for veterans and former first responders. The state's next steps in this direction are highly anticipated by both supporters and skeptics.
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Psilocybin products are illegal in California
In California, the cultivation, possession, distribution, transportation, and sale of psilocybin outside of an approved research setting are generally illegal. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring hallucinogen found in certain species of mushrooms often referred to as "magic mushrooms". While it is illegal at the federal level, there is growing support for the legalization or decriminalization of psilocybin in California.
Despite the illegality of psilocybin products in California, some Los Angeles County cannabis dispensaries have been known to sell them openly. Lt. Jay Moss of the Sheriff's Department's narcotics bureau confirmed that psychedelic mushrooms are commonly sold at dispensaries in the county's unincorporated areas. However, these sales are typically not done openly, and customers usually need to ask for the mushrooms as they are not displayed. The Sheriff's Department has served numerous search warrants at dispensaries selling psilocybin mushrooms, but the illicit industry persists due to its lucrative nature.
While California has not legalized psilocybin, some cities within the state have passed measures to decriminalize its use. Oakland, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz have decriminalized magic mushrooms, and several other California cities have passed similar measures. Additionally, Senate Bill 58, which aims to eliminate criminal penalties for possessing, growing, and sharing small amounts of psilocybin, is currently making its way through the state legislature.
Advocates for psychedelic therapies are pushing for the legalization or decriminalization of psilocybin in California. They argue that these substances have significant therapeutic benefits, particularly for veterans struggling with PTSD and depression. Despite multiple efforts, proposals to legalize psychedelics in California have failed in the past. However, supporters are regrouping and exploring more narrow approaches, such as pilot programs or small-scale initiatives, to increase the chances of success in the future.
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California's Senate approved a measure to decriminalise psychedelics
California has been at the forefront of progressive drug legislation in the United States, with the state senate approving a measure to decriminalize certain psychedelics in September 2023. The bill, SB 58, sought to remove criminal penalties for possessing and using small amounts of natural psychedelics, including psilocybin mushrooms, for adults aged 21 and above. The vote was 21-14 in favor of the bill, with Democrats and Republicans divided on the issue.
The bill was introduced by Senator Scott Wiener, who highlighted the potential benefits of mushroom use and the need for a health-based approach instead of criminalization. He emphasized the promise of psychedelics in treating mental health issues such as treatment-resistant depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction. This sentiment was echoed by lawmaker Bill Essayli, who supported the bill, stating that if psychedelics could help people with mental health struggles, they should have access to them.
However, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the bill on October 7, 2023, stating that more work needed to be done to set up thorough guidelines for treatment before decriminalization could be implemented. He urged the legislature to send him a revised bill that includes therapeutic guidelines and expressed concern about the potential increase in driving under the influence. Despite the veto, California voters may have a chance to weigh in on the issue in the future, with advocates pushing for initiatives to expand psychedelic use on the ballot in 2024.
It is worth noting that even before the state-level discussions, several cities in California, including Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Berkeley, had already decriminalized natural psychedelics from plants and fungi. Additionally, some Los Angeles County cannabis dispensaries were reported to be openly selling magic mushrooms, even though the sale and possession of psilocybin remain illegal under federal law.
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Decriminalization of mushrooms could increase driving under influence
In recent years, there has been a push for the decriminalization of psychedelic mushrooms, particularly in California and Colorado. In California, some Los Angeles County cannabis dispensaries have been openly selling 'magic mushrooms' as the state considers eliminating criminal penalties for possessing small amounts. California lawmakers have passed a measure to decriminalize certain types of psychedelics, with the state senate voting 21-14 in favour of the bill. Despite this, law enforcement has expressed concern about the potential increase in driving under the influence of mushrooms.
Similarly, in Colorado, the decriminalization of magic mushrooms has led to confusion among residents about whether they are allowed to drive after consuming mushrooms. It is important to emphasize that driving under the influence of any impairing substance, including mushrooms, remains illegal. Colorado has Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) who are trained to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs, including mushrooms. The penalties for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) are similar to those for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) and can include fines, license suspension, community service, and even jail time.
The decriminalization of mushrooms is intended to provide access for therapeutic purposes, with "healing centres" expected to open in late 2024 where people can use psilocybin and psilocin in a supervised setting to address mental health conditions. However, it is crucial for individuals to understand that driving under the influence of mushrooms remains illegal and can carry serious consequences. While the decriminalization of mushrooms may increase access for those seeking therapeutic benefits, it is essential to prioritize public safety by refraining from driving after consuming mushrooms.
The potential increase in driving under the influence cases highlights the importance of education and responsible consumption. As with any substance, individuals must be educated about the effects and potential risks associated with mushroom consumption. It is crucial to plan ahead and arrange alternative transportation if considering the use of mushrooms. By raising awareness and providing clear guidelines, the risks associated with driving under the influence of mushrooms can be mitigated, ensuring that individuals can make informed and safe choices.
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Frequently asked questions
Some dispensaries in Los Angeles sell "magic mushrooms", despite the drug being illegal in California.
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of psychedelic mushroom.
No, magic mushrooms are illegal in California. However, the state legislature is considering decriminalizing the drug.
Possession of magic mushrooms is illegal in California, but the penalties vary depending on the amount possessed and the age of the individual. For example, under the Initiative, adults aged 21+ would face reduced penalties for possession of psilocybin without parental consent, while minors and young adults aged 18-20 would be required to complete a drug education program.
Individuals wishing to access psilocybin legally must travel outside of the United States to a jurisdiction where psilocybin is legal. One legal route to accessing psilocybin within the United States is to be approved as a participant in a federally-licensed clinical trial involving psilocybin, although such opportunities are rare.
