Don’t Trip. Vote ‘Yes’ on Ballot Question 4.

As voters head to the polls to decide the future of psychedelic use in the state, they would be wise to remember that over five million people are estimated to use psychedelics. And yet — despite these numbers — no crises have erupted.

Given the relatively low risk of addiction or overdose, we shouldn’t expect catastrophe if this question passes. Citizens — including those who are underage — will continue using psychedelics regardless of whether or not they are explicitly legalized.

Furthermore, there are very real reasons to create safe pathways for psychedelic use. The National Institutes of Health has itself noted the medical benefits of certain psilocybin and MDMA in treating certain mental illnesses; the licensed centers proposed in this ballot question would provide a reasonable setting for users to take these drugs.

Decriminalization will both destigmatize drug usage and, most importantly, provide safe, regulated avenues for those who choose to use them. Voting “yes” on Ballot Question 4 will help achieve these goals.

This staff editorial solely represents the majority view of The Crimson Editorial Board. It is the product of discussions at regular Editorial Board meetings. In order to ensure the impartiality of our journalism, Crimson editors who choose to opine and vote at these meetings are not involved in the reporting of articles on similar topics.

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