Washington

Regulations and Guidelines for Businesses in Washington

As of 2024, Washington state maintains strict regulations on psychedelics, including psilocybin and psilocyn. These substances are classified as Schedule I hallucinogenic controlled substances under state law. However, recent legislative efforts have begun to shift the landscape. While this represents a limited opening for psychedelic businesses, it’s important to note that broader legalization has not yet occurred. The pilot project restricts psilocybin use to specific service centers under the supervision of trained facilitators, with participants required to undergo preparation, administration, and integration sessions.

Legalization History of Psychedelics in Washington

Washington’s journey with psychedelics has seen significant developments in recent years. In March 2022, the state legislature approved funding for a workgroup to study the possibility of legalizing psilocybin services, including exploring the use of current marijuana regulatory systems for psychedelic mushrooms. This initiative set the stage for more concrete legislative action. In May 2023, a substitute to Senate Bill 5263 was signed into law, providing $1.4 million for a two-year pilot project focused on psilocybin treatment for veterans and first responders. This project, effective from July 7, 2023, tasks the Department of Health (DoH) with creating standards for manufacturing, testing, packaging, and labeling psilocybin products, assisted by a Psilocybin Advisory Board.

At the local level, Jefferson County made history on May 2, 2023, becoming the first county in Washington to decriminalize psychedelic plants, including psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and mescaline-containing cacti, designating them as the “lowest law-enforcement priority.” These steps reflect a gradual shift in the state’s approach to psychedelics, balancing potential therapeutic benefits with public safety concerns.