Colorado lawmakers have approved a groundbreaking bill that would allow pardons for certain psychedelics-related offenses and create a data tracking system to better understand the impacts of psychedelic reform. The legislation, which already passed the Senate, now heads to Governor Jared Polis for his signature.
The bill is designed to build on Colorado’s voter-approved psychedelic legalization law passed in 2022. That measure decriminalized personal use of certain plant-based psychedelics like psilocybin and authorized state-regulated healing centers. However, many people still carry criminal records for psychedelics-related offenses that are no longer considered illegal under the new law.
If signed, the bill would empower the governor to issue pardons for eligible offenses, helping individuals clear their records and avoid the long-term consequences of criminal convictions. Advocates argue that this is a critical step in addressing past harms caused by outdated drug policies.
In addition to the pardon process, the legislation establishes a comprehensive data collection system. This program would track the use, outcomes, and broader social impacts of legalized psychedelics in Colorado. Lawmakers say that gathering data will help ensure the state can monitor public health, guide future policy decisions, and support safe, equitable access to psychedelic therapies.
Supporters believe the bill balances justice reform with responsible oversight. By offering pardons, the state can begin to repair the harm caused by criminalizing psychedelics, while data tracking will provide transparency and accountability as the new system rolls out.
Opponents have raised concerns about public safety and the potential for unintended consequences. However, the bill’s sponsors emphasize that regulated psychedelic access combined with careful monitoring is the best way to promote safety and public trust.
Colorado’s progress continues to attract national attention as other states and cities consider their own psychedelics reforms. If signed into law, this bill could serve as a model for how to combine social justice initiatives with responsible regulatory frameworks in the growing psychedelics movement.
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