By Olivia Ray
BOSTON (WWLP) – Next up in the 22News ballot question series is a closer look at question 4, which asks voters where Massachusetts should draw the line on the legalization of certain psychedelic substances.
Some studies say the use of psychedelics could be a breakthrough treatment for PTSD, anxiety, and depression, but it’s up to voters to decide if Massachusetts should be the next state to legalize these drugs.
A yes vote would allow legal adults to use certain psychedelics, to grow and possess psychedelics in their homes, as well as create a commission to regulate these substances.
A no vote would make no change to the current laws.
22News spoke to an actress and advocate who explained her personal experience. and why she believes question 4 can save lives.
“We are in a mental health crisis and we need new medical tools,” said Eliza Dushku, who is best known for her role in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and the show’s spinoff. “It was such an extraordinary and transformational thing that changed my life.”
Some voters oppose question 4 because they do not support any use of psychedelics, but for others, it’s more complicated.
The spokesperson from the No on 4 campaign told 22News that their opposition stems from concerns about how the question is written.
They explained that the bill says that communities will not be given the option of opting out of having dispensaries, or the option to require a medical professional to be present for psychedelic usage.
“If home growth wasn’t allowed…and they required a medical professional on-site, I’d be working for the yes side,” said No on 4 spokesperson Chris Keohan. “But that’s not what this is. This is a giveaway to corporations who are looking to make more money.”
There is another side to the no on 4 argument as well–some pro-psychedelic organizations are concerned that if the question were to pass, access to these mushrooms would become increasingly expensive.
From our perspective, if these treatments are not affordable, they’re not really legal,” said James Davis, the co-founder of Bay Staters for Natural Medicine. “So for us, we want to see a system where we regulate this correctly and it’s not just a repeat of the cannabis fiasco of 2016.”
While the yes argument says legalization is the quickest path to expanding access, both sides say there is more work to be done on the language of the bill before it should be passed.
You can chime in on whether it’s time to legalize psychedelics in the commonwealth on your general election ballot on November 5.