The legal status of psychedelics varies significantly across the globe and even within the United States, reflecting a wide range of attitudes towards these substances. Here's a general overview of the situation as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021:
United States
At the federal level, most psychedelics including LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT are classified as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act. This means they are officially considered to have no accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.
However, there is variation at the state and city levels. Several cities, including Denver, Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Ann Arbor, have decriminalized the use and possession of psilocybin and other entheogenic plants and fungi. This does not make them legal but makes enforcement of laws against their use a low priority. Oregon has gone a step further, with voters approving Measure 109 in November 2020 to create a program for the medical use of psilocybin, and Measure 110 to decriminalize personal possession of all drugs.
Canada
In Canada, psychedelics are generally classified as Schedule III substances under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, making them illegal. However, the Health Minister has granted exemptions to some terminally ill patients to use psilocybin as part of their end-of-life care.
Europe
In Europe, the legal status of psychedelics varies greatly by country. In the Netherlands, for example, "magic truffles" (which contain psilocybin) are legal and sold openly, while in other countries such as France and Sweden, they are strictly prohibited. Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001 and instead focuses on treatment and harm reduction.
South America
In some South American countries, traditional psychedelic substances play a role in cultural practices and are legal. In Peru and Brazil, for example, ayahuasca (a brew containing DMT) is legal and used in religious and healing ceremonies.
Australia
In Australia, psychedelics are generally classified as Schedule 9 substances, making them illegal to manufacture, possess, and sell. However, there is growing interest in their therapeutic potential, with some clinical trials underway.
This is a rapidly evolving field, with ongoing research and advocacy potentially leading to changes in the legal status of psychedelics in many places. However, it's important to remember that even where these substances are decriminalized or their use is deprioritized by law enforcement, they can still carry risks and should be used responsibly.