Yes on 4! Legalizing Psilocybin in Massachusetts
CJ LoConte, Jared Moffat, Dr. Hannah McLane, Lt. Sarko Gergerian, Dr. Fernando Espi Forcen
Did you know that Massachusetts is on the verge of becoming the first East Coast state to legalize psilocybin? A ballot initiative similar to Oregon’s successful Measure 109 is gaining momentum. The initiative, known as Yes on 4, is being spearheaded by Massachusetts for Mental Health Options, which aims to create a regulated infrastructure for psilocybin access based on what Colorado and Oregon have done.
Ballot initiatives are a proven method of creating important policy changes that would otherwise take many more years to become law. Most East Coast states only have traditional legislative methods for passing new laws, and that can usually add years to passing forward-looking policy. For example, it was a ballot initiative that passed Massachusetts’ consumer cannabis law in 2016. Its neighbor, New York, does not have ballot initiatives and was not able to pass consumer cannabis legislation until 2021.
At its heart, this initiative is about bringing hope and healing to Massachusetts residents who suffer from conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even those without a diagnosis seeking psychedelic experiences for personal growth and spiritual development.
Dr. Hannah McLane and Michael Pollan
As you know, SoundMind has been working hard on state and federal policy. Last week, Dr. Hannah had the honor of speaking at a fundraiser for Yes on 4. She reminded the crowd of healthcare professionals, activists, and first responders, that they all share a common belief: psilocybin therapy offers safe and effective transformative healing.
Among the notable attendees were Lt. Sarko Gergerian, a SoundMind graduate, who has played a pivotal role in garnering statewide support for psilocybin access. Lt. Gergerian’s influence has extended to police unions, mayors, and state representatives. In fact, he was tasked with writing the electoral description language, meaning every voter in Massachusetts will read his words on the ballot. His advocacy is an inspiring example of how deeply psilocybin therapy can impact not only individuals but entire communities. We are incredibly proud of you, Sarko!
Other attendees included prominent figures like Eliza Dushku, CJ LoConte, Fernando Espi Forcen, and author Michael Pollan, all standing in solidarity with the campaign.
How You Can Help:
Whether you live in Massachusetts or not, there are several ways you can support the Yes on 4 campaign:
Follow and Share: Spread the word by following and sharing content from the Massachusetts for Mental Health Options social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube. Their social media toolkit makes it easy to get involved and share information with your network.
Support Through Voting: If you live in Massachusetts, confirm your voter registration and make sure you’re ready to cast your vote on this crucial initiative. Attend one of the campaign’s Virtual Town Halls to learn more:
October 9 at 7:00 PM ET (featuring NHL player Daniel Carcillo)
Get Involved Locally: You can request campaign materials through this form such as signs and stickers to show your support, or join a community Zoom meeting to volunteer your time.
Donate: The campaign needs financial support to fund public education efforts by clicking here.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
Polling indicates that Massachusetts voters are in favor of regulated access to psychedelics, but with a crowded election season ahead—including a Presidential race and four other ballot initiatives—the campaign needs as much support as possible to ensure Yes on 4 gets the attention it deserves.
The legalization of psilocybin isn’t just a local issue; it’s part of a larger, national movement towards recognizing the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. With the rejection of other psychedelic-assisted therapies like MDMA by the FDA, it’s more important than ever to push for state-level reform.
Dr. Hannah speaking at the Cambridge Boat House
A Call to Clinicians: Support Legalization
If you’re a prescriber or PhD clinician, SoundMind is working in collaboration with Massachusetts for Mental Health Options to gather signatures for a letter of support. By signing, you help bring legitimacy and professional backing to this movement. Time is of the essence—signatures are needed by the end of next week.
