Magic in mushrooms? Veterans working to legalize psychedelic drugs in Nevada

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines is making a push to help veterans combat post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.

The coalition was formed after SB 242, introduced by state Sen. Rochelle Nguyen, was signed into law during this year's legislative session.

News 3 spoke to the president of the coalition. Jon Dalton, who served in the Navy Seals for more than two decades.

Dalton explained how he was struggling after suffering traumatic brain injuries during his time as a Seal. He went down to Mexico to experience psychedelic-assisted therapy, where psychedelics were used to help patients in a controlled environment.

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He said it changed his life and his mission now is to make sure everyone in the state has access to the same help. He is advocating for the legalization of psychedelic-assisted therapy and the decriminalization of psychedelic drugs.

"These drugs can actually attack the root cause of PTSD, depression, and anxiety," said Dalton. "Drugs like magic mushrooms and MDMA, studies have shown they can do more than treat the side effects."

The Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines is fighting for legalized and affordable access to psychedelic therapy and evidence-based policy reform through education, advocacy and collaboration, and they need public support to do that.

Visit nevadacpm.org to learn more about the coalition.