The bill establishes the Psilocybin Behavioral Health Access and Services Advisory Board—a group of 15 members including health experts, public officials, and individuals with experience in psychedelic therapy. This board will shape how psilocybin services are delivered, including the education and training of facilitators and the requirements for psilocybin service centers across the state.

Under the proposed framework, patients could access psilocybin services through licensed facilities after undergoing a thorough screening process, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Patients will have the opportunity to participate in three phases of psilocybin services: a preparation session, a supervised administration session, and an integration therapy session.

The law is designed to help break the stigma around psychedelics and unlock their potential to promote healing in communities, especially in underserved areas. Importantly, it also includes a social equity program to support individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to access psilocybin services or even start businesses in this new field.

However, the road to legalization isn’t complete. The full Senate still needs to vote on the bill, and a similar version is awaiting a vote in the Assembly. Once passed, the final step will be Governor Phil Murphy’s approval to make this initiative a reality for New Jersey residents.

For those concerned about public safety, the bill lays out comprehensive regulations regarding licensing, service center operations, and product testing. Employers are also restricted from taking action against employees who legally participate in psilocybin services unless they are visibly impaired at work.