Voters reject the legalization of some psychedelic substances

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According to the Associated Press, about 87 percent of precincts that reported it voted against the measure, with 57 percent of residents voting against it.

Massachusetts voters rejected a ballot question that would have legalized several plant- and mushroom-based psychedelic substances for therapeutic use.

According to the Associated Press, about 87 percent of precincts that reported it voted against the measure, with 57 percent of residents voting against it. If passed, several psychedelic substances would have been legalized.

Specifically, the measure would have allowed adults to purchase psilocybin, psilocyn, dimethyltryptamine, mescaline and ibogaine at approved locations and use them under the supervision of licensed facilitators. However, retail sales would have been prohibited.

The Coalition for Safe Communities, which opposed the proposal, called the ballot question “poorly worded and misguided.” They said their coalition included organizations representing over 60,000 doctors and psychiatrists nationwide.

“Today, voters across Massachusetts came together to reject the passage of Question 4, recognizing the negative impact it would have on our neighborhoods, streets, hospitals, children, pets and public safety across the state,” it says a statement from the coalition.

The proposal would have created a state-appointed commission and advisory board to regulate the newly legalized substances. Another aspect of the law would have allowed adults over the age of 21 to grow these psychedelic substances in their homes up to a quantity for personal use in an area measuring 12 feet by 12 feet, the law states.

Massachusetts for Mental Health Options, the yes campaign, said despite broad support, the homegrown aspect of the proposal likely led to the measure's failure.

“But we have made hugely important progress on this issue of psychedelic therapy and will continue to fight to find new avenues for anyone struggling with their mental health,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “We look forward to working with lawmakers in the new session to continue to advocate for access, hope and healing.”

What happens now?

Nothing. The ballot measure did not pass, so no psychedelics will be legalized for consumption in Massachusetts.

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Molly Farrar is a general reporter for Boston.com covering education, politics, crime and more.

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