SPRINGFIELD — A new measure introduced by State Senator Rachel Ventura to establish the Illinois Psilocybin Advisory Board to investigate and advise on best practices for psilocybin treatments to help tackle treatment-resistant conditions such as PTSD passed the Senate Thursday.
“I remain committed to passing the CURE Act in its entirety and providing real change for individuals who have exhausted other treatment methods,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This bill is an important first step in that effort and will provide legislators with essential research on the safety and efficacy of psychedelic use in therapeutic treatments.”
For the past several years, Ventura has championed Senate Bill 2184, also known as the CURE Act, which would establish a framework for the legal manufacture, delivery, use and possession of psilocybin, and make conforming changes to the state’s criminal laws. The measure would require a referral from a health care professional in order to begin the therapy. Prior to first exposure of psilocybin, an individual would undergo a prep session to gauge their conditions and previous treatments and methods they have tried. Post session integration meeting would ensure the individual has the resources and tools they need to work through the psilocybin experience.
The measure led by Ventura this year – Senate Bill 2772 – would implement a part of the CURE Act, establishing the Illinois Psilocybin Advisory Board under the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The board would advise on a training program, ethical standards and licensing requirements as it related to psilocybin. During a two-year program development period, the board would issue recommendations for health and safety regulations to agencies tasked with regulating psilocybin production and use. Ventura remains committed to passing the CURE Act in its entirety at a later date.
“SB 2772 helps ensure that, if these therapies become available in Illinois, they are implemented in a way that is safe, ethical, and grounded in scientific evidence,” said Jessica Punzo, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist certified in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. “Illinois has an opportunity to lead with care, rigor, and compassion—particularly in addressing the mental health needs of veterans, first responders and others suffering from severe and persistent conditions.”
Senate Bill 2772 passed the Senate Thursday and now heads to the House for further consideration.
