This Maine City Moves Unanimously On Decriminalizing Psychedelics: Focus On Public Health – Benzinga

In a groundbreaking move, Portland, Maineunanimously advances a resolution aimed at decriminalizing select psychedelic plants and fungi.

Backed by Decriminalize Maine, this move has the potential to reshape drug policies within the city, according toMarijuana Moment.

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The resolution targets specific natural substances, including psilocybin, psilocin, ibogaine, mescaline (excluding peyote), and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Notably, peyote is excluded from the list due to its ecological vulnerability and profound cultural significance to Indigenous communities.

What sets this resolution apart is its focus on promoting personal use and sharing without compensation, particularly through home cultivation. However, it's essential to understand that criminal enforcement will not waver for activities such as selling, dispensing, possessing on school premises, or driving under the influence of these substances.

One of the most pivotal aspects of this resolution is the city's commitment to reprioritizing its resources. It emphasizes that city funds and resources should not be utilized to aid in the investigation or criminal prosecution of individuals engaged in the covered activities.

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Councilor Anna Trevorrow plays a key role in introducing amendments to the resolution, with a focus on encouraging safer substance use practices. By allowing sharing and home cultivation, the city aims to deter involvement in the black market and align with communal and cultural usage patterns.

Inspired by a similar measure in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Portland resolution is driven by a commitment to medical and wellness perspectives. Councilor April Fournier underscored the natural use of these plants in supporting individuals on their healing journeys.

Whats Next?It's worth noting that the resolution will undergo thorough federal funding checks before a full City Council vote. The first reading is scheduled for October 2, with potential council action on October 16, pending any unforeseen delays.

Read the full story at Marijuana Moment.

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This Maine City Moves Unanimously On Decriminalizing Psychedelics: Focus On Public Health - Benzinga