Olympia Decriminalizes Psychedelics: A Step Towards Mental Health Reform?

In a landmark decision, the Olympia City Council has unanimously approved a resolution that effectively decriminalizes the possession and personal use of psychedelics, including psilocybin mushrooms.

This move, decided during the council's regular meeting on August 13, aligns Olympia with a growing number of cities across the United States that are rethinking their approach to drug enforcement, particularly in the context of mental health.

The resolution instructs law enforcement to treat the enforcement of laws against the possession and use of psychedelics as a low priority. This means that no city funds or resources will be allocated for the investigation, prosecution, or arrest of individuals solely for possessing or using these substances.

However, it’s important to note that the resolution does not legalize the commercial manufacturing or sale of these substances, nor does it allow for their use in public or in situations that might endanger public safety.

Under Washington State law, individuals caught possessing or using a controlled substance, including psychedelics, can currently face a gross misdemeanor charge. A first offense could result in up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, while repeat offenses carry the possibility of a year in jail.

More severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine, apply to those found manufacturing or possessing with intent to deliver.

Despite these potential legal consequences, Olympia’s new resolution emphasizes the potential mental health benefits of psychedelics. The resolution cites research, including trials sanctioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has shown promising results for psilocybin-assisted therapy.

This form of treatment has gained recognition for its efficacy in addressing mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and anxiety, leading to calls for a re-evaluation of the legal status of psychedelics.

Olympia’s Police Chief Rich Allen, in a memorandum to City Manager Jay Burney, clarified that the resolution does not prevent police officers from taking action in situations where public safety is at risk. However, he also pointed out that, over the past five years, there have been no arrests in Olympia solely for the possession of psilocybin.

In the few cases where psilocybin was involved, it was found alongside other, more harmful substances, or the arrest was related to other offenses, such as driving under the influence.

The resolution is part of a broader trend in the U.S., where cities and states are increasingly viewing drug decriminalization as a public health issue rather than solely a criminal justice matter. By deprioritizing the enforcement of psychedelic possession, Olympia is taking a cautious but progressive step towards embracing the therapeutic potential of these substances, while still maintaining public safety and order.

While the resolution does not permit the commercialization or broader distribution of psychedelics, it marks a significant shift in how the city approaches drug policy.

As the conversation around psychedelics continues to evolve, Olympia’s decision could serve as a model for other cities considering similar measures, particularly as more evidence emerges regarding the mental health benefits of these substances.

Do you support Olympia's decision to decriminalize psychedelics for personal use?