New Guidelines on Psychedelics Policy from MAPS

Sia Henry, JD, Associate Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), shared that with growing national interest in psychedelic reform, MAPS has developed a nonpartisan, values-based policy guidebook to support lawmakers and advocates.¹ The guidebook outlines foundational principles, provides policy framing, and analyzes real-world examples to offer an evidence-based roadmap for responsible state-level reform around psychedelics.

Henry identified 2 primary access pathways for psychedelic drugs addressed in the guidebook: decriminalization and regulated access. She defined decriminalization as the removal or reduction of criminal penalties for activities such as personal possession of these drug types, often accompanied by deprioritization of enforcement.² She emphasized that decriminalization does not constitute legalization and typically falls between prohibition and a fully regulated commercial model. Although decriminalization of psychedelic substances permits personal use and, in some cases, noncommercial sharing, it generally involves minimal regulatory oversight, she said. Henry noted that this limited structure could result in variability in product safety and facilitator practices, thereby necessitating robust public education and harm reduction infrastructure.

In contrast, Henry described regulated access as a structured model in which individuals access psychedelic substances through licensed service centers with trained facilitators. She stated that in this scenario, participants would be screened and prepared prior to administration and typically receive support afterward. Unlike medicalized models restricted by diagnosis, regulated access programs could allow broader adult participation in psychedelic treatments. Henry cited Oregon as the first jurisdiction to implement a statewide regulated psilocybin services framework, offering an illustrative example of this approach.

Henry emphasized that thoughtful policy design, public health safeguards, and education were essential to advancing safe and equitable psychedelic access.

References

1. In a defining election year, MAPS releases policy guidebook to shape the future of psychedelic reform. Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies. February 4, 2026. Accessed February 19, 2026. https://maps.org/2026/02/05/maps-releases-policy-guidebook-to-shape-the-future-of-psychedelic-reform/

2. Chesak J. What psychedelics legislation and decriminalization looks like around the world. BBC. March 21, 2024. Accessed February 19, 2026. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240320-legal-status-of-psychedelics-around-the-world