While the US works to decriminalize cannabis state-by-state, magic mushrooms have sprouted up on ballots as well. On November 2nd, 61% of Detroit voters approved the ballot initiative, Proposal E. Above all, the proposal disallows police to enforce laws related to adult possession or use of entheogenic substances, and decriminalizes possession and therapeutic use of those substances.
Detroit’s Road to Substance Decriminalization
Photo by Matt Popovich from Unsplash
Within Proposal E is the decriminalization of certain entheogenic substances or entheogens. The list of approved entheogens include ayahuasca, psilocybin, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). It also includes compounds such as indole amines, tryptamines, and phenethylamines.
An entheogenic nature advocacy group called Decriminalize Nature Michigan has garnered a lot of traction from supporters around the state. For example, the group helped gain approval for language supporting entheogens in Grand Rapids and led the petition drive to put Proposal E on the ballot in Detroit. Although, Grand Rapids is without an outline for law enforcement prioritization, advocates have won this battle in the mission for the total decriminalization of nature.
“Obviously, we are excited by the amazing turnout of Detroit voters last night and we’re overwhelmed by the support for prop E. This is the momentum we needed to keep going.”
Myc Williams, Decriminalize Nature Michigan co-Director
Changes in the Detroit Law Enforcement System
Similarly, places like Ann Arbor, Denver, and Seattle have also pushed these substances to the city’s lowest law enforcement priorities. But, Detroit law enforcement has to figure out how they will decriminalize and de-prioritize in their own way.
“There is no virtue in speculating about how the city would handle the mandate of the initiative, in the event it passes. Like every other city in the US, Detroit can only make ordinances consistent with state and federal laws. Therefore, if the initiative passes, the city will have to work within that framework.”
Lawrence Garcia, Corporation Counsel
