JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A new treatment for numerous disorders may be coming to military veterans in Missouri if a new bill passes.
The bill, SB 768 introduced by Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder who represents multiple southern Missouri counties, would legalize psilocybin treatment for veterans over the age of 21 who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, substance use disorders or who require end-of-life care.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in the mushrooms of the same name, commonly referred to as "shrooms" or "magic mushrooms." The compound has been listed as having a high potential for abuse under the Controlled Substances Act since 1970, but researchers and medical experts have only recently begun to understand the psychedelic's therapeutic potential, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Any psilocybin used by veterans for therapy must be tested in a licensed lab, according to the bill. Those using psilocybin would also be limited to no more than 150 milligrams of the psychedelic in 12 months.
The bill would also allocate $3 million for psilocybin treatment research, including appropriation from the Opioid Addiction Treatment and Recovery Fund.
"This act modifies current law on the use of investigational drugs and devices for individuals with terminal illnesses to include individuals with life-threatening or severely debilitating conditions or illnesses," the bill's summary said. "Currently, investigational drugs shall not include Schedule I controlled substances. This act repeals that prohibition."
The bill passed the Missouri Senate's Emerging Issues Committee in a 6-1 vote on Feb. 27. The bill will now head to debate on the Senate floor.
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