A bill reclassifying synthetics like psilocybin mushrooms has passed through the South Dakota legislature and awaits the governor's signature.
Under the bill, the medical composition of crystalline polymorph psilocybin in medication will be reclassified from a Schedule I to IV controlled substance if approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Crystalline polymorph psilocybin is an artificial psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, controlled substances classified as schedule I are substances currently with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. As for those classified as Schedule IV, they are substances with low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence.
Other states including North Dakota, Nebraska, and Colorado have passed similar legislation of therapeutic usage of psychedelics.
Supporters say the use of psychedelics to treat mental illnesses such as PTSD or treatment-resistant depression is a promising field of medical research.
Opponents of the bill say it's a pointless conversation.
The bill passed on a 21 to 12 vote Monday and now awaits the governor's signature.
