HI SR153

Department of Health requested to establish a Therapeutic Psilocybin Working Group to examine therapeutic uses of psilocybin for mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and end-of-life psychological distress.

Working Group directed to examine federal, state, and county laws regarding therapeutic psilocybin use, medical and scientific research on efficacy and safety, and existing requirements in jurisdictions where psilocybin is legally used for mental health treatment.

Working Group must develop a long-term strategic plan to ensure safe availability and accessibility of affordable therapeutic psilocybin or psilocybin-based products for adults 21 years of age or older.

Membership includes Director of Health (chairperson), Attorney General, Dean of John A. Burns School of Medicine, legislative health and judiciary committee chairs, Hawaii State Council on Mental Health chairperson, and invited licensed physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, and psychiatrists.

Working Group must submit report with findings, recommendations, strategic plan, and proposed legislation to Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2024 Regular Session; Working Group dissolves June 30, 2025.