Governor Newsom Vetoes SB-58, Preventing Possession of Small Amounts of Psilocybin and Other Psychedelics from Becoming Legal in California

October 7, 2023

 

Today, in a major upset to drug policy reformers, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 58, a landmark piece of legislation that would have legalized certain activities involving a set list of psychedelic substances (including psilocybin, psilocyn, spores capable of producing “magic mushrooms,” DMT, and mescaline). We previously discussed SB-58 here and here.

Many see this as a political move for Governor Newsom, who is likely positioning himself for a future presidential campaign. In his veto message, Newsom urged “the legislature to send [him] legislation next year that includes therapeutic guidelines.”

For now, possession of psilocybin mushrooms and other substances included in SB-58 will remain illegal under both state and federal law, which local “decriminalization” ordinances adopted by cities and counties have no power to modify.

 

This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended nor should be construed as legal advice. For specific questions regarding the status of psilocybin mushrooms or other psychedelics, contact the Law Offices of Omar Figueroa at info@omarfigueroa.com or 707-829-0215 to schedule a confidential legal consultation.