LDS Legislator Introduces Psychedelic Bill In Utah
If passed, a proposed bill in Utah would create a task force to evaluate whether or not psychedelics are a viable option to treat mental illness.
The bill was introduced by Rep. Brady Brammer.
"I’m kind of your typical Mormon guy and this hasn’t been an area that I’ve delved into personally," he told FOX 13. "But I do have a lot of empathy for those that are struggling with mental illness."
It is important to note that HB 167 does not legalize any substances. It is only intended to explore the potential of psychedelics in mental health treatment. The bill specifies that experts with the Huntsman Mental Health Institute review the research that is out there and evaluate whether it can be used to treat mental health patients on a prescription basis. Aside from the Huntsman experts, the bill states that the task force would also include: a licensed psychiatrist, a licensed psychologist, a representative of the Utah Medical Association, a neuroscience and mental health researcher, a representative of a civil liberties group, a hospital representative, a nominated patient who understands the use of psychedelic drugs and other experts appointed by a patient advocacy group.
Brammer made sure to say he never intended for the bill to lead to recreational use of psychedelics, but only a treatment option for people who battle forms of mental illness.
Medical cannabis has been legal in Utah since 2018, and while Utah’s medical cannabis is far from perfect, Brammer referenced the policy in an interview regarding his proposed bill.
"The world isn’t falling apart with medical cannabis, and this is a very different type of treatment and would likely require more medical supervision than medical cannabis requires," he said.
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Utah’s medical cannabis program requires quite a lot of medical supervision compared to other states, with things like the QMP program, patient caps and frequent renewals. So, it is likely, if the task force decides psychedelics are a viable option here in Utah, there will be plenty of obstacles to actually get psychedelics to patients. But, this task force is a step in the right direction.
The bill, if passed, states that the task force will be required to submit findings to the Health and Human Services Interim Committee before October 31, 2022.
The Research On Psychedelics
The science on psychedelic treatments is promising and continues to grow every year. Johns Hopkins, one of the most respected research institutions in the country, has an entire department dedicated to psychedelic research with many studies showing positive outcomes.
One of the most notable studies pitted SSRI antidepressant medication (which is known to have unpleasant side effects for some) against psilocybin (magic mushrooms). The results showed psilocybin performed better across the board.
Recently a licensed therapist spoke with the Utah Bee about the benefits MDMA could have on couples counseling, such as creating happier couples less likely to experience mental health problems and divorce.
With rates of mental illness at an all-time high and an alarming suicide rate in Utah, this bill could open the door to people finally getting the safe, effective treatment they’ve been seeking.
“I think it is wonderful. Just having the conversation is changing the dynamic,” said Steve Urquhart, former legislator and founder of Utah’s first mushroom church, The Divine Assembly.
Remember, with the end of prohibitions, there will be growing pains and roadblocks, but there will also be leaps forward and progressive change. Advocate for what you believe in, and the Utah Bee will be here to report on the important plant medicine issues facing our state and country.