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FLORIDA - Florida is set to criminalize the possession and distribution of psychedelic mushroom spores under a new provision in the state’s wide-ranging “Farm Bill,” SB 700.
Governor Ron DeSantis has confirmed he intends to sign the bill, which includes the controversial measure targeting psilocybin spores and mycelium, early forms of mushrooms that can later produce psychoactive compounds.
Though psilocybin is already classified as a Schedule I substance in Florida, its spores have remained legal since they don’t contain the psychedelic compound.
The bill changes that, making the trafficking of these spores a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Supporters argue the law helps prevent potential abuse, but critics say it stifles promising research into mental health treatments.
In 2018, the FDA granted "breakthrough therapy" status to psilocybin-assisted treatment for depression, recognizing its significant potential.
Small studies have shown it can dramatically reduce symptoms of treatment-resistant depression.
Former state lawmaker Mike Grieco once introduced legislation to explore psilocybin and other substances for mental health treatment, but it failed to gain traction.
He criticized Florida’s failure to invest in alternative therapies, particularly for veterans and first responders.
Advocates like Peter Sessa of Cannadelic Miami argue the law threatens the future of mental health innovation, while others warn it overreaches by banning spores that are not themselves illegal under federal law.
Once signed, Florida will join states like Idaho and Georgia in tightening restrictions on psychedelic mushroom components, despite growing support for their therapeutic use.