New Jersey's legislature has passed a bill to create a $6 million psilocybin therapy pilot program, sending the measure to Governor Phil Murphy's desk for final approval.
The bill cleared both chambers with bipartisan support after navigating through multiple committee reviews. If signed, New Jersey would join Oregon and Colorado as states offering legal access to psilocybin-assisted therapy.
"This program represents a potential turning point in how we treat some of our most challenging mental health issues," said State Senator Troy Singleton, a key sponsor of the legislation.
What the Program Would Do
The pilot would fund supervised psilocybin therapy sessions at licensed facilities. Patients with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and other qualifying conditions would be able to access the psychedelic compound under clinical supervision.
Psilocybin—the active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms—remains a Schedule I substance under federal law, but the FDA has granted it "breakthrough therapy" designation for depression, signaling potential future approval.
The Path Forward
Oregon launched its psilocybin services program in 2023, becoming the first state to offer legal therapeutic access. Colorado voters approved a broader measure in 2022 that includes provisions for personal use.
New Jersey's approach focuses specifically on clinical applications, with strict oversight and licensed practitioners.
Murphy's Decision
The governor has not publicly indicated whether he will sign the bill. His office has historically supported cannabis reform and mental health initiatives, but psilocybin represents new territory for the state.
Industry observers expect a decision within the standard 45-day review period. If approved, the program would likely take 12 to 18 months to implement as regulators develop licensing requirements and facility standards.
This article is based on original reporting by Marijuana Moment.
