New Mexico State Representative Liz Thomson announced the introduction of the Medical Psilocybin Act on January 30. The act aims to establish a program offering alternative treatments for mental health conditions in individuals unresponsive to traditional therapies, as said in a press release.
"When we're facing epidemic levels of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other debilitating mental health conditions," said Thomson. "We owe it to those suffering to explore promising new treatments like psilocybin. By establishing a highly-regulated, state-run program."
According to the press release, New Mexico's Senate Bill 219, known as the Medical Psilocybin Act, proposes a state-regulated program to provide psilocybin treatments for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance use disorders. The bill seeks to establish a Medical Psilocybin Advisory Board, a Treatment Equity Fund, and a Research Fund. It also intends to remove psilocybin from the Controlled Substances Act for qualified patients and providers. If passed, the program is expected to launch by December 31, 2027.
Deborah Thorne, a board-certified physician associate and integrative psychiatry specialist, expressed support for the Medical Psilocybin Act. "The Medical Psilocybin Act will provide an equitable, safe, and well-monitored means of offering this valuable medicine," she said in the press release.
MedicalNewsToday reports that psilocybin, the active compound found in "magic mushrooms," has demonstrated potential benefits in reducing anxiety, depression, and addiction while enhancing emotional well-being and cognitive flexibility. Research indicates that even a single dose can produce long-lasting therapeutic effects by promoting neuroplasticity and improving mood. It may also aid in addiction recovery and increase creativity; however, further research is required.
The Mental Health America (MHA) organization reports that approximately 23.08% of adults—or nearly 60 million Americans—experienced mental illness in the past year. Around 5.86% of adults faced severe mental illness. The prevalence of adult mental illness varies by state, ranging from 19.38% in New Jersey to 29.19% in Utah.
Thomson's website states that she entered public service with goals including expanding education for children with disabilities and working on crime reduction and community policing initiatives. She currently serves as Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and is a member of the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee in New Mexico.
