Arcata, CA May Become The Third California City To Decriminalize Psychedelics

The North Californian city of Arcata is the latest to present a resolution to decriminalize entheogenic substances. Councilmember Sarah Schaefer is the leader of the legislation, which would essentially place enforcement of laws against psychedelics in the lowest of the police force's priorities. A press release states:
"The resolution to decriminalize entheogens in Arcata would establish that the investigation and arrest of persons for planting, cultivating, engaging in practices with, or possessing entheogenic plants and fungi or plant compounds shall be the lowest law enforcement priority for the City of Arcata and reprioritizing funding away from the arrest of individuals engaging with entheogenic practices. The City of Arcata has many other priorities for the use of its funds, staff, and law enforcement resources."

Though the move is in its beginning stages, it's a promising measure that reflects society's changing views on banned substances that could have beneficial properties. The press release cited medicinal properties as well as the failed war on drugs in their decision to introduce the resolution:

"The decriminalization of entheogenic plants and fungi is an important step away from the war on drugs while expanding opportunities for research on the medicinal benefits of these plants and fungi. Research shows that these plants have the potential to help overcome anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and so much more, something that could be enormously beneficial to any community" said Sarah Schaefer, Arcata City Council Member."

If passed, Arcata would join Oakland and Santa Cruz as the third California city to enact reform over psychedelics. California as a whole has a different psychedelic legalization bill in the works.

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