Hosted by the Maryland Department of Legislative Services: https://dlslibrary.state.md.us/publications/Exec/MCA/Ch793,Ch792(2024)_2025(10).pdf
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Landmark report recommends innovative "Ensemble Model" for safe, equitable access to natural psychedelics
Annapolis, MD – November 5, 2025 – The Task Force on Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances today released its October 2025 report to the Maryland General Assembly, marking a significant milestone in the state's examination of natural psychedelic substances for therapeutic and personal use.
The 19-member task force was established by Chapters 792 & 793 of the Acts of 2024, sponsored by Senator Brian Feldman and Delegate Pam Guzzone via House Bill 548/Senate Bill 1009. Charged with evaluating and recommending policy frameworks for legal access by the general public to psilocybin/psilocin, mescaline, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT), the task force has held over 100 meetings and now delivers its second comprehensive report in three months to state legislators.
"This report represents an unprecedented collaborative effort drawing on Maryland's legacy and leadership in psychedelic science," said Andrew Coop, PhD, Task Force Chair and Professor at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy . "Our goal has been to provide evidence-based recommendations that prioritize public health, patient safety, equity, and scientific integrity."
Innovative Ensemble Model Framework
The task force recommends an "Ensemble Model", in the form of a multi-pathway framework designed to provide safe, broad, and equitable access to natural psychedelic substances, with an initial focus on psilocybin. This innovative approach combines complementary elements from multiple access frameworks, including medical and therapeutic use, supervised adult use, deprioritization, and commercial sales.
"Rather than choosing a single regulatory pathway, we're integrating the strongest elements from various approaches to maximize public benefit while mitigating risks," explained Shanetha Marable-Lewis, Chair of the Regulations and Governance Committee of the task force and Executive Director of Veterans Initiative 22. "The ensemble model allows us to serve the diverse needs of Maryland's population while maintaining unified safety standards and accountability."
The phased implementation strategy enables long-term learning and improvement—starting small, utilizing built-in evaluation mechanisms, gathering real-world data, and committing to iterative policymaking that can adapt to emerging evidence.
Rigorous Research and Stakeholder Engagement
The task force organized its work across five committees: Substances, Models of Access, Regulations and Governance, Public Education and Legislative Support, and Economic Impact. Members include representatives from the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Disabilities, Department of Health, and Maryland Cannabis Administration, along with Governor-appointed experts in psychedelic research, pharmacology, behavioral health, chronic pain, religious use, and drug policy reform.
Using a modified Delphi methodology, the task force evaluated 90 carefully crafted policy propositions and drew on lessons from pioneering jurisdictions including Washington D.C., Oregon, Colorado, and New Mexico. The task force also collaborated with an independent economics team at Johns Hopkins University to assess potential impacts of different regulatory frameworks.
Key Findings
Research review found that psilocybin/psilocin, mescaline, and DMT are generally well-tolerated with favorable safety profiles, though they can present unique psychological risks for certain populations. Natural psychedelic substances may be useful in treating mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic pain. Analysis revealed that associations with crime and poisonings appear minimal, while public perceptions reflect growing interest alongside common concerns.
Importantly, the task force does not support delaying state action pending future federal FDA approval.
The complete report is now available for review by the public. For more information, to access the full report, or to submit feedback, please visit TFNPS.com, or email Dr. Andrew Coop (task force Chair) at andrew.coop@maryland.gov.