New Hampshire House Bill HB1809

New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/18/25
• Refer: 12/18/25
• Report Pass: 2/3/26
• Refer: 2/12/26
• Report DNP: 3/19/26
• Report Pass: 3/19/26
• Engrossed: 3/30/26
• Refer: 3/30/26
• Report DNP: 4/23/26

Caption

Establishing a medical psilocybin advisory board to assess the advantages and disadvantages of the use of psilocybin for therapeutic purposes.

Impact

If implemented, this legislation will create a framework for the medical use of psilocybin and establish an advisory board responsible for overseeing the evaluation of clinical outcomes. The advisory board will include a variety of stakeholders, including medical professionals and patient representatives, which aims to enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the program. However, the program's implementation is contingent on the advisory board certifying that the necessary regulatory framework is in place within two years of the bill's passage, or the law will not take effect.

Summary

House Bill 1809 aims to legalize the medical use of psilocybin in New Hampshire through a carefully regulated program established by the Department of Health and Human Services. The bill recognizes that patients suffering from conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders may benefit from supervised psilocybin treatments. Under the bill, licensed providers will be authorized to administer psilocybin, ensuring a controlled and therapeutic environment that adheres to specific medical guidelines.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1809 appears to be cautiously optimistic among supporters who see potential benefits in addressing significant mental health challenges facing the state. Proponents argue that regulated access to psilocybin could provide innovative treatment options for patients who have exhausted other therapies. Nevertheless, there may also be opposition based on concerns regarding the safety, societal implications, and the complexity of administering psychedelic treatments in clinical settings.

Contention

Notably, a point of contention around HB 1809 revolves around regulatory concerns and the practicalities of implementing a psilocybin treatment program. Critics may voice concerns about the approach taken to regulate a psychedelic substance like psilocybin, questioning whether the current healthcare infrastructure is equipped to handle its complexities effectively. Ensuring that medical providers are thoroughly vetted and that patients receive adequate support throughout their treatment will be critical in alleviating such apprehensions.