HAZEL PARK (WWJ) -- Hazel Park is now the third city in Michigan that has decriminalized psychedelic plants and fungi, including magic mushrooms -- joining Detroit and Ann Arbor.
The resolution passed by city council on Tuesday night means that the investigation of adults who plant, cultivate, purchase, transport, distribute or possess entheogenic plants would be the lowest priority for Hazel Park police.
“We need to eliminate the stigma around entheogenic plants and acknowledge them for what they are – legitimate medicinal and therapeutic substances that have improved countless lives,” said Hazel Park City Councilmember Luke Londo, who introduced the resolution. “As a proponent and occasional consumer, it’s critical that we normalize these natural treatments that allow people to overcome addiction, improve their mental health and embrace their religion and spirituality.”
Any investigations, arrests or prosecutions relating to alleged violations of state or federal law involving psychedelic plants will not be executed using city resources. However, this does not rule out the potential for a state or federal investigation.
The resolution also calls upon Oakland County Prosecuting Attorney to halt the prosecution of people involved in entheogenic plants usage.
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“We are grateful for the Hazel Park City Council’s action tonight, and hope to see other cities and the entire state of Michigan follow suit,” said Shan Vicius, a psychedelic integration coach who runs the Decriminalize Nature Hazel Park chapter. “People like me who use entheogenic plants are your friends, your clients, your family and your neighbors. We deserve the ability to use these natural medicines that significantly improve our wellness and our lives.”
But the fight isn't over for some, like Decriminalize Nature Michigan, who is collecting signatures for a petition that would decriminalize entheogenic plants across the state for people 18 and older. The only state that has a similar policy is Oregon.
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