Hawaii Senate Bill SR3

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Medicinal Psilocybin And Psilocin Working Group To Examine The Medicinal And Therapeutic Effects Of Psilocybin And Psilocin And Develop A Long-term Strategic Plan To Ensure The Availability Of Medicinal Psilocybin And Psilocin Or Psilocybin-based And Psilocin-based Products That Are Safe, Accessible, And Affordable For Eligible Adult Patients.

Impact

The working group will evaluate existing federal, state, and local laws regarding the medicinal use of psilocybin and psilocin, alongside research on their safety and efficacy in mental health treatment. The resolution mandates the group to develop a long-term strategic plan to ensure the availability of safe and affordable medicinal psilocybin products for eligible adults. This could have significant implications for the regulatory landscape concerning psychedelics in the state, as it opens the door to potential legislative changes based on the group's findings.

Summary

Senate Resolution 3 (SR3) of Hawaii calls for the establishment of a Medicinal Psilocybin and Psilocin Working Group under the Department of Health. This group is tasked with examining the medicinal and therapeutic effects of psilocybin and psilocin, substances found in certain mushrooms shown to have efficacy in treating mental health conditions such as addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders. The resolution emphasizes the need to explore innovative treatment options due to a shortage of mental health professionals in Hawaii, indicating a serious consideration of alternative therapies.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding SR3 may arise from differing opinions on the use of psychedelics in medicine. While proponents cite the successful outcomes in studies and the FDA's recognition of psilocybin as a breakthrough therapy for depression, opponents may express concerns regarding the implications of broadening access to such substances and the adequacy of existing regulations. Additionally, questions about the qualifications and practices involved in prescribing these substances could produce debates within the health community and among policymakers.