It's only been 10 years since Colorado became the first state to legalize the sale of recreational marijuana for adults in 2014, and roughly half of the country has followed suit. More than 100 million Americans have been able to go from having no legal access to marijuana to being able to walk into a dispensary, buy weed, and enjoy it anytime they want.
Now Bo Kilmer, co-founder of the RAND Center for Drug Policy Research, is noticing similar activity in the legalization of psychedelics. He sees nascent legislation for legal sales of psychedelics similar to what preceded the legalization of cannabis. While the medical use of psychedelics is getting more attention and states are allocating funds for research, the possibility of retail sales of psychedelics is becoming a growing concern. «State policymakers, whether they like it or not, are going to have to deal with these issues» — Kilmer noted.
Nevertheless, public discussions about the functioning of the retail market for psychedelics are still virtually non-existent. Discussions are mostly about limited approaches such as therapy, religious exemptions or supervised retreats.
Now Bo Kilmer, co-founder of the RAND Center for Drug Policy Research, is noticing similar activity in the legalization of psychedelics. He sees nascent legislation for legal sales of psychedelics similar to what preceded the legalization of cannabis. While the medical use of psychedelics is getting more attention and states are allocating funds for research, the possibility of retail sales of psychedelics is becoming a growing concern. «State policymakers, whether they like it or not, are going to have to deal with these issues» — Kilmer noted.
Nevertheless, public discussions about the functioning of the retail market for psychedelics are still virtually non-existent. Discussions are mostly about limited approaches such as therapy, religious exemptions or supervised retreats.
Even if these models are well developed, and the general decriminalization of drugs arrives, many people will still not be able to access psychedelics. Not everyone will be able to get a prescription for their preferred psychedelic, and not everyone will be able to afford expensive supervised programs that cost a minimum of $1,800 per session at Oregon's state-run program or thousands of dollars at high-end retreat centers. In addition, not everyone will want to join religious communities to obtain an exemption. For those who don't have people they know who can share psychedelics, decriminalization alone won't significantly improve access either.
If lifting the ban on psychedelics implies that all adults should have access to them, then allowing retail sales could help address the shortcomings. However, it's easy to see why even psychedelics proponents might be against the idea. Psychedelics do come with certain risks, and increased availability could lead to greater exposure to these risks, which is not yet well understood. Moreover, there is serious concern among proponents that legalization too quickly or carelessly could lead to psychedelics being banned again.
The issue of legalization and commercialization of psychedelics is indeed controversial and requires a balanced approach. On the one hand, psychedelic therapy has demonstrated its effectiveness in treating various mental illnesses, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. On the other hand, there are risks associated with the uncontrolled use of such substances, which can lead to negative health and safety consequences.
If lifting the ban on psychedelics implies that all adults should have access to them, then allowing retail sales could help address the shortcomings. However, it's easy to see why even psychedelics proponents might be against the idea. Psychedelics do come with certain risks, and increased availability could lead to greater exposure to these risks, which is not yet well understood. Moreover, there is serious concern among proponents that legalization too quickly or carelessly could lead to psychedelics being banned again.
The issue of legalization and commercialization of psychedelics is indeed controversial and requires a balanced approach. On the one hand, psychedelic therapy has demonstrated its effectiveness in treating various mental illnesses, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. On the other hand, there are risks associated with the uncontrolled use of such substances, which can lead to negative health and safety consequences.
The commercialization of psychedelics may result in their availability and use being limited only by people's financial means, which may exacerbate social inequalities. Therefore, having government regulation and developing understandable policies are important steps to ensure safe access to these substances.
Research, such as reports by RAND and Transform Drug Policy Foundation, can help to formulate a balanced strategy that takes into account both the needs of society and possible risks. A key aspect is to create an infrastructure for educational programs so that users understand how to use psychedelics safely and so that the market develops not only for commercial interests but also for public health.
It is also important to consider the cultural and historical contexts in which psychedelics are used. In some cultures, certain types of these substances have been used traditionally and may be part of a broader practice of self-discovery and spiritual development. Such an approach can help create a more holistic understanding and regulation of the psychedelics market.
Ultimately, public discussion based on research and practical experience will help to develop optimal solutions for the legalization and commercialization of psychedelics.
Research, such as reports by RAND and Transform Drug Policy Foundation, can help to formulate a balanced strategy that takes into account both the needs of society and possible risks. A key aspect is to create an infrastructure for educational programs so that users understand how to use psychedelics safely and so that the market develops not only for commercial interests but also for public health.
It is also important to consider the cultural and historical contexts in which psychedelics are used. In some cultures, certain types of these substances have been used traditionally and may be part of a broader practice of self-discovery and spiritual development. Such an approach can help create a more holistic understanding and regulation of the psychedelics market.
Ultimately, public discussion based on research and practical experience will help to develop optimal solutions for the legalization and commercialization of psychedelics.
Retail psychedelics
As we consider the retail sale of psychedelics, we are faced with an important question: how can we avoid psychedelic chaos in a society where mushrooms appear in every store, DMT in stylish vape pens is in the hands of young people, and emergency rooms are overflowing with people whose perception of reality is distorted beyond recognition?
Expert Kilmer identifies two key categories in psychedelic retail logistics: supply architecture and design considerations. The first is to determine who can implement psychedelics. The RAND report presents a variety of models, including sales by government organizations, nonprofit agencies, socially oriented corporations, and traditional for-profit businesses.
In terms of minimal intervention, the best option may be to give the government a monopoly on distribution. This was done in a number of US states when alcohol prohibition was repealed in the 1930s. Similar approaches are seen in Canada, where provinces such as Quebec and Nova Scotia manage cannabis sales.
As we consider the retail sale of psychedelics, we are faced with an important question: how can we avoid psychedelic chaos in a society where mushrooms appear in every store, DMT in stylish vape pens is in the hands of young people, and emergency rooms are overflowing with people whose perception of reality is distorted beyond recognition?
Expert Kilmer identifies two key categories in psychedelic retail logistics: supply architecture and design considerations. The first is to determine who can implement psychedelics. The RAND report presents a variety of models, including sales by government organizations, nonprofit agencies, socially oriented corporations, and traditional for-profit businesses.
In terms of minimal intervention, the best option may be to give the government a monopoly on distribution. This was done in a number of US states when alcohol prohibition was repealed in the 1930s. Similar approaches are seen in Canada, where provinces such as Quebec and Nova Scotia manage cannabis sales.
A government monopoly on the sale of psychedelics has its advantages. A single supplier would ensure control over product safety, avoiding problems such as fentanyl being added to MDMA, a risk that is becoming increasingly relevant on the black market, or substandard products causing nausea. In the absence of retail competition, the likelihood of irresponsible marketing that could put new consumers at risk is greatly reduced, which has been one of the problems with the cannabis market. Presumably the government will not erect billboards offering LSD — in the 50s the authorities were generally silent about their experiments with the substance.
Nevertheless, giving the government exclusive rights to legally sell psychedelics after the Nixon administration initially drove these substances underground seems ironic. It is important to note that even in the context of cannabis legalization, the idea of government control over sales was not widely accepted in the United States.
Another step could be to legalize sales through certain organizations, such as non-profit or charitable companies. For example, New York, when issuing its first cannabis retail licenses, gave them to either non-profit institutions or plaintiffs with a focus on vulnerable groups (mostly people with criminal records related to cannabis).
Nevertheless, giving the government exclusive rights to legally sell psychedelics after the Nixon administration initially drove these substances underground seems ironic. It is important to note that even in the context of cannabis legalization, the idea of government control over sales was not widely accepted in the United States.
Another step could be to legalize sales through certain organizations, such as non-profit or charitable companies. For example, New York, when issuing its first cannabis retail licenses, gave them to either non-profit institutions or plaintiffs with a focus on vulnerable groups (mostly people with criminal records related to cannabis).
By limiting retail licenses to organizations with a public purpose, the potential excesses of a commercial approach to selling psychedelics, such as aggressive marketing or evading regulations to increase revenue, can be minimized, emphasizing the interests of public health and justice.
Applying stricter restrictions, several countries, including Uruguay, Spain and, more recently, Germany, have implemented a non-profit collective model for cannabis that can be adapted for psychedelics through so-called «social clubs». These clubs create spaces where participants can purchase and use drugs while receiving varying degrees of support from the community and peers.
At the same time, a commercial approach to cannabis sales is prevalent in the US. In theory, this model could have a positive impact on consumers by promoting competition and lowering prices. However, it also creates an incentive for companies to skirt the rules in search of competitive advantage, including aggressive advertising and product innovation, which can raise concerns, even among proponents. For example, chewing candy with THC is one thing, but lollipops with LSD or psilocybin bubble tea? This forms ambiguous situations.
Applying stricter restrictions, several countries, including Uruguay, Spain and, more recently, Germany, have implemented a non-profit collective model for cannabis that can be adapted for psychedelics through so-called «social clubs». These clubs create spaces where participants can purchase and use drugs while receiving varying degrees of support from the community and peers.
At the same time, a commercial approach to cannabis sales is prevalent in the US. In theory, this model could have a positive impact on consumers by promoting competition and lowering prices. However, it also creates an incentive for companies to skirt the rules in search of competitive advantage, including aggressive advertising and product innovation, which can raise concerns, even among proponents. For example, chewing candy with THC is one thing, but lollipops with LSD or psilocybin bubble tea? This forms ambiguous situations.
While there are parallels with cannabis, there are critical differences that must be considered when applying a similar model to psychedelics. Kilmer explains that retail cannabis sales were initiated by two primary goals: reducing arrests and increasing tax revenue. He suggests that these factors will not have a significant impact on psychedelics policy reform, as the number of arrests and financial benefits of psychedelics are significantly lower than cannabis, according to the RAND study.
Kilmer also identifies at least three key differences that could affect market dynamics. First, psychedelic users will be less sensitive to price changes than cannabis users because they don't have a reliable black market to turn to. Second, monitoring of use is not relevant for cannabis, whereas for psychedelics it is an important aspect, as even recreational users may need to be monitored by an outsider. Third, although cannabis is used quite frequently, the RAND study shows that the psychedelics market in its current state is largely shaped by infrequent users.
There are many design aspects to consider in order to create a successful supply model. It is necessary to determine who will be involved in the production or cultivation of psychedelics, what quality control system can be implemented, how to regulate packaging, and how to effectively communicate information about informed choice. What strategies for public education can help shape responsible use? What would be the policy on advertising? Should dosage limits be imposed? What important harm reduction information should be attached to products?
Kilmer also identifies at least three key differences that could affect market dynamics. First, psychedelic users will be less sensitive to price changes than cannabis users because they don't have a reliable black market to turn to. Second, monitoring of use is not relevant for cannabis, whereas for psychedelics it is an important aspect, as even recreational users may need to be monitored by an outsider. Third, although cannabis is used quite frequently, the RAND study shows that the psychedelics market in its current state is largely shaped by infrequent users.
There are many design aspects to consider in order to create a successful supply model. It is necessary to determine who will be involved in the production or cultivation of psychedelics, what quality control system can be implemented, how to regulate packaging, and how to effectively communicate information about informed choice. What strategies for public education can help shape responsible use? What would be the policy on advertising? Should dosage limits be imposed? What important harm reduction information should be attached to products?
These and many other issues require in-depth analysis and discussion, which in turn will require more time and effort than a couple of analytical reports. Research conducted by Transform and RAND has already begun to raise these important topics, but more data is needed to understand possible smart steps forward. «When I started researching and analyzing the numbers in detail, I realized we were missing a lot of data» — Kilmer noted.
With the development of retail legislation already underway, this data will be needed as soon as possible.
New York wants to allow psychedelics
Advocates for access to psychedelics have long heard demands to wait for more data. But in cases where psychedelics could provide relief, such as for people with chronic pain or PTSD, each day of waiting only brings more suffering.
That's what makes the bill introduced in May by New York Representative Amy Paulin so interesting. It offers a solution that doesn't require waiting while policymakers design and customize the entire retail market before providing access. Moreover, among approaches to psychedelics retailing, this option appears to be the most balanced, combining increased access with a focus on safety.
With the development of retail legislation already underway, this data will be needed as soon as possible.
New York wants to allow psychedelics
Advocates for access to psychedelics have long heard demands to wait for more data. But in cases where psychedelics could provide relief, such as for people with chronic pain or PTSD, each day of waiting only brings more suffering.
That's what makes the bill introduced in May by New York Representative Amy Paulin so interesting. It offers a solution that doesn't require waiting while policymakers design and customize the entire retail market before providing access. Moreover, among approaches to psychedelics retailing, this option appears to be the most balanced, combining increased access with a focus on safety.
The essence of the bill is to adapt the model for obtaining a driver's license to include psychedelics. Those over the age of 18 would be required to undergo a medical examination, take an educational course and pass a test, after which they would be allowed to purchase psychedelics (in this case, psilocybin) from licensed sellers. Such products could then be taken home and used as they see fit, as well as grow mushrooms and share them with other adults who are authorized to do so.
While the approaches described in the Transform and RAND reports emphasize licensing the supply of psychedelics, the permissions model offers an additional layer of protection focused on who is authorized to buy and use them. Of course, some people may be opposed to the idea of needing a state permit to purchase or use psychedelics. However, a similar requirement exists for other activities that may pose a threat to oneself and others, such as driving. If the alternative is a complete ban on retail sales, then let them criticize.
The bill seeks to address some of the logistical problems associated with implementing this idea by indicating that licensed mushroom growers would be able to sell psilocybin directly to permit holders through a system overseen by the Department of Health, which would also be responsible for the content of the educational course. Of course, many questions remain: what parameters will be tested during the medical exam? Should the course include practical exercises? How will permit holders be able to get help if difficulties arise? What are the requirements for obtaining a license for cultivators?
Nevertheless, an approach with mandatory licensing at every stage — from production to distribution to use — creates many regulatory opportunities, filling in supply gaps left by therapies, controlled programs, or religious exemptions. By seeking consumer authorization, this model is more harm reduction-oriented than commercial cannabis regulation, which has received a lot of criticism recently.
Nevertheless, an approach with mandatory licensing at every stage — from production to distribution to use — creates many regulatory opportunities, filling in supply gaps left by therapies, controlled programs, or religious exemptions. By seeking consumer authorization, this model is more harm reduction-oriented than commercial cannabis regulation, which has received a lot of criticism recently.
There are certainly risks in the retail sale of psychedelics. However, last year about 41,000 Americans were killed in traffic accidents, and we continue to be licensed to drive.
There are a lot of concerns, especially if you're going to develop a commercial industry in psychedelics. However, at the end of the day, you may have compelling empirical data with minimal uncertainty, and a lot comes down to values and risk preferences for decision makers.
