'Magic mushroom' research bill heads to Oklahoma Senate – KOKH FOX25

The Oklahoma Senate is poised to consider legislation that would pave the way for research into the therapeutic potential of a psychedelic drug derived from “magic mushrooms.”

The measure, SB 1027, would authorize the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to establish a research program that would allow “investigators to study the effects of psilocybin and its related compounds on mental health conditions and associated symptoms.” Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms.

The bill was passed unanimously by the Oklahoma House of Representatives last month and is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on Tuesday.

The push to allow research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been buoyed by a growing body of scientific research. Studies have suggested that psychedelic compounds could be used to treat a range of mental health disorders, from depression and anxiety to post-traumatic stress disorder.

If passed, the legislation would establish a research program to be administered by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. The program would be funded through fees, grants, donations, and other sources.

The program would be overseen by an advisory board to be appointed by the governor, with representatives from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, and other relevant organizations.

The board would be responsible for reviewing and approving research applications, as well as developing protocols and standards for research and reporting. The board would also be authorized to apply for and accept grants and other funding sources to support the program.

The legislation has received strong support from both sides of the political aisle, with proponents arguing that the research could lead to significant breakthroughs in the treatment of mental health disorders. If approved, Oklahoma would become the first state in the nation to establish such a program.