In a groundbreaking move, Portland, Maine unanimously advances a resolution aimed at decriminalizing select psychedelic plants and fungi.
Backed by Decriminalize Maine, this move has the potential to reshape drug policies within the city, according to Marijuana Moment.
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About The Portland's Psychedelic Resolution
The resolution targets specific natural substances, including psilocybin, psilocin, ibogaine, mescaline (excluding peyote), and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Notably, peyote is excluded from the list due to its ecological vulnerability and profound cultural significance to Indigenous communities.
What sets this resolution apart is its focus on promoting personal use and sharing without compensation, particularly through home cultivation. However, it's essential to understand that criminal enforcement will not waver for activities such as selling, dispensing, possessing on school premises, or driving under the influence of these substances.
One of the most pivotal aspects of this resolution is the city's commitment to reprioritizing its resources. It emphasizes that city funds and resources should not be utilized to aid in the investigation or criminal prosecution of individuals engaged in the covered activities.
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Advocates Push For Safer Practices & Public Health
Councilor Anna Trevorrow plays a key role in introducing amendments to the resolution, with a focus on encouraging safer substance use practices. By allowing sharing and home cultivation, the city aims to deter involvement in the black market and align with communal and cultural usage patterns.
- During the committee's discussion, the public rallied behind the resolution with unanimous support. Advocates like Wendy Chapkis, a sociology professor and Decriminalize Maine board member, highlighted the importance of creating safe environments for consuming these substances.
- Chapkis also pointed out that decriminalization could be especially beneficial for older adults dealing with end-of-life issues, a demographic that can benefit from the therapeutic potential of psychedelics.
Inspired by a similar measure in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Portland resolution is driven by a commitment to medical and wellness perspectives. Councilor April Fournier underscored the natural use of these plants in supporting individuals on their healing journeys.
What’s Next? It's worth noting that the resolution will undergo thorough federal funding checks before a full City Council vote. The first reading is scheduled for October 2, with potential council action on October 16, pending any unforeseen delays.
Read the full story at Marijuana Moment.
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