Massachusetts Question 4: Voters reject legalizing psychedelics

Bay State voters said no to psychedelics on Tuesday.

Question 4, which would have legalized some mind-altering drugs, was rejected by Massachusetts voters.

The Associated Press called the ballot question for the “no” side at 3:52 a.m. Wednesday — with 56.9% for no and 43.1% for yes after 88% of votes were counted.

If passed, the ballot issue would have allowed residents 21 and older to grow and use plant-based psychedelics in certain circumstances.

The Bay State would have been the third state to legalize some mind-altering drugs that are considered illegal by the federal government.

The psychedelics include two found in so-called “magic mushrooms” — psilocybin and psilocyn — and three from plants — mescaline, dimethyltryptamine and ibogaine.

The measure would have allowed the substances to be purchased at approved locations for use under the supervision of a licensed facilitator. Although it would prohibit retail sale, it would let individuals grow psychedelics at home and share them.

The proposal would have allowed for the regulation and taxation of psychedelics and create a five-member commission to oversee the industry.

Critics warned it could lead to a black market. They also argued the centers would not be prevented from giving psychedelics to people considered high risk, like those with schizophrenia, bipolar illness or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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