Prerequisite: None

Exam Type: No Exam

This reading group analyzes local, state, federal, and international laws governing psychedelic substances such as psilocybin, mescaline, ibogaine, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Topics of discussion include the regulation of psychedelic production, possession, sales, and use in the contexts of research, healthcare, commerce, spirituality, and Indigenous traditions. Students will learn about current legal debates, relevant statutes such as the Controlled Substances Act and Religious Freedom Restoration Act, applicable international treaties and sections of the U.S. Constitution, the role of agencies such as the FDA and DEA, and ongoing local, state, and federal psychedelic policy reforms. The reading group may be of interest to students of many legal fields, including health law, business law, criminal law, FDA regulation, constitutional law, and intellectual property.

Note: This reading group will meet on the following dates: January 23, January 30, February 27, March 5, April 9, and April 16.