What is the legality of psilocybin in Colorado, United States?

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain species of mushrooms. As a result, the legal landscape surrounding psilocybin has begun to shift in some regions, including Colorado in the United States. This article provides an overview of the current legal status of psilocybin in Colorado, common terms used for psilocybin mushrooms, information on growing them, and the penalties and enforcement strategies for psilocybin possession and use.

What is the legal status of psilocybin in Colorado, United States?

Psilocybin remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law in the United States, which means it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess the substance. However, some local jurisdictions in Colorado have moved to decriminalize psilocybin, leading to a more nuanced legal landscape.

• In May 2019, Denver became the first city in the United States to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms for personal use and possession for adults aged 21 and older.
• While decriminalization does not mean that psilocybin is legal in Denver, it does mean that enforcement of criminal penalties for possession and use is a low priority for law enforcement.
• In November 2020, the city of Boulder also decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms, as well as other plant-based psychedelics.

It is important to note that decriminalization in these cities does not extend to the sale, distribution, or cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms, which remain illegal activities under both local and federal law.

What terms are used for psilocybin mushrooms in Colorado, United States?

There are various terms used for psilocybin mushrooms, some of which may be specific to Colorado or the United States. Common terms include:

• Magic mushrooms
• Shrooms
• Psychedelic mushrooms
• Psilocybes
• Teonanácatl (a term derived from the Nahuatl language, meaning flesh of the gods)

Can I grow psilocybin mushrooms in Colorado, United States?

As mentioned earlier, the cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms remains illegal under both federal and local laws, even in cities where possession and use have been decriminalized. Engaging in the cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

What are the penalties and enforcement strategies for psilocybin possession and use in Colorado, United States?

While the enforcement of psilocybin possession and use may be a low priority in cities like Denver and Boulder, it is still important to be aware of the potential penalties for these activities under Colorado and federal law. Penalties can include:

• Fines
• Imprisonment
• Probation
• Community service
• Drug education or treatment programs

Penalties can vary depending on factors such as the amount of psilocybin involved, prior convictions, and whether the offense involves distribution or cultivation.

What helpful links, government laws, and resources are available for understanding psilocybin legality in Colorado, United States?

For those interested in learning more about the legal landscape surrounding psilocybin in Colorado, the following resources may be helpful:

• City of Denver Psilocybin Mushroom Information
• Colorado General Assembly (for information on state laws)
• U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Scheduling
• Erowid Psilocybin Mushroom Law Vault (for information on federal and state laws)