New Mexico State Senator Jeff Steinborn introduced the Medical Psilocybin Act on January 30, aiming to create a regulated program for psilocybin use to expand treatment options for those facing mental health challenges. This statement was made via a press release on January 30.

"The Medical Psilocybin Act creates a carefully designed framework for the Department of Health," said Steinborn. "Treatment for serious behavioral health challenges is critical. This proven therapy offers new hope for those in need."

The Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research is leading studies on psilocybin’s potential as a treatment for mental health disorders, backed by $55 million in funding. Research has shown that psilocybin-assisted therapy can provide long-term relief for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction, with findings supporting its reclassification for medical use.

According to the press release, New Mexico legislators introduced Senate Bill 219, the Medical Psilocybin Act, to establish a regulated psilocybin treatment program for conditions like PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. The bill creates a Medical Psilocybin Advisory Board, funds research, ensures equitable access, and removes legal barriers for qualified patients and providers. If passed, the program would be available by December 31, 2027.

In 2024, an estimated 57.8 million U.S. adults lived with a mental illness, with anxiety disorders being the most common, affecting 19.1% of adults annually. Major depression impacted 8.3% of the population, and mental health-related emergency room visits among adolescents increased by 31% since 2019, as reported by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.

According to his website, Steinborn has been a New Mexico State Senator since 2016 and has led efforts in ethics reform, outdoor recreation, film incentives, and environmental protection initiatives such as the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.