Jackson, MI Votes to Decriminalize Psychedelic Plants and Fungi
The city of Jackson, Michigan, has taken a significant step toward decriminalizing psychedelic substances, including mushrooms and other psychoactive plants and fungi. On Tuesday, December 16th, the Jackson City Council approved a resolution by a 4-2 vote that reclassifies the purchase, planting, and possession of these substances as the lowest law enforcement priority. The chambers were filled with supporters who erupted in cheers following the council’s decision.
This groundbreaking vote reflects a growing sentiment that these natural compounds may offer viable alternatives for individuals struggling with various mental health challenges and substance use disorders.
A Promising Alternative for Mental Health and Well-being
Proponents of the resolution highlight the potential of entheogen-based therapies to address conditions that often prove resistant to conventional treatments. Tyler Bashore, a Jackson resident, shared his perspective, stating, “Many of us know individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD or substance use disorders. In many cases, conventional treatments are not effective, inaccessible or come with significant side effects. Entheogens-based therapies represent a promising alternative, often low cost, low risk.”
Roger Maufort, owner of The Seed Cellar located at 1620 E. Michigan Ave., echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the historical use of psychedelic substances in addressing a range of issues. He noted their potential to help with substance abuse problems, trauma, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and even cluster headaches.
The substances explicitly covered by the resolution include ayahuasca, ibogaine, mescaline, peyote, and psilocybin mushrooms, among others with hallucinogenic properties. It’s important to note that these substances remain illegal under state and federal law.
Personal Stories Drive Policy Change
The personal impact of these therapies was a powerful force behind the resolution. Ward 6 City Councilmember Will Forgrave shared a deeply personal account of how entheogenic treatments were instrumental in his wife’s recovery from severe postpartum depression. He recounted that prior treatments had been ineffective, and the entheogenic therapy ultimately had a profound positive impact.
“It’s not hyperbolic when I tell you that it saved her life,” Forgrave stated. “It probably saved my life, it definitely saved our marriage and our family. It’s something that’s near and dear to my heart.” His testimony underscored the life-altering potential of these substances when used therapeutically.
Maufort has been a consistent advocate, attending Jackson City Council meetings since 2023 with staff and fellow supporters. He views the resolution as a crucial step towards allowing individuals to seek treatment without the constant fear of legal repercussions. He also expressed a desire to see this issue addressed at the state level.
Another resident, Del Esme, described the resolution as a move towards “harm reduction” and a pathway to “greater community health.”
Opposition and Limitations
Despite the strong support, the resolution did face opposition. Ward 1 City Councilmember Arlene Robinson and Ward 2 City Councilmember Freddie Dancy voted against it. Councilmember Dancy cited personal beliefs as the basis for his opposition.
The resolution’s intent is to direct the Jackson County prosecutor’s office to deprioritize the prosecution of individuals involved with entheogenic plants. However, it does not grant authorization for the possession or purchase of these substances under specific circumstances. These limitations include prohibitions on possessing or purchasing entheogens on school grounds, while operating a vehicle, or for individuals under the age of 18.
A Growing Trend in Michigan
Jackson is not alone in its approach to decriminalizing entheogens. Several other municipalities across Michigan have already enacted similar measures, demonstrating a broader shift in perspective regarding these substances. These include:
- Ann Arbor
- Washtenaw County
- Ypsilanti
- Detroit
- Ferndale
- Hazel Park City
This trend suggests a growing recognition among local governments of the potential therapeutic benefits and the need for a more compassionate and harm-reduction-focused approach to substances that have long been subject to strict prohibition. The Jackson City Council’s decision marks another significant milestone in this evolving conversation.
