Magic Mushroom Spores Made Illegal in Florida

Florida Criminalizes Magic Mushroom Spores: What You Need to Know 

In a significant shift in Florida’s drug policy, Governor Ron DeSantis has signed legislation that criminalizes the sale, possession, and distribution of certain mushroom spores capable of producing psilocybin or psilocin the psychoactive compounds found in “magic mushrooms.” This new law, part of the broader Florida Farm Bill (SB 700), will take effect on July 1, 2025.  

Understanding the New Legislation

Previously, psilocybin and psilocin were classified as Schedule I substances in Florida, making their possession and sale illegal. However, the spores of psilocybin mushrooms remained legal, as they do not contain these psychoactive compounds. The new law changes this by making it a first-degree misdemeanor to “transport, import, sell, offer for sale, furnish, or give away spores or mycelium capable of producing mushrooms or other material which will contain a controlled substance, including psilocybin or psilocyn, during its lifecycle”.   Violations of this law can result in up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine . 

Implications for Researchers and Enthusiasts

This legislation has raised concerns among researchers and mycology enthusiasts. While the law aims to curb the cultivation of psychedelic mushrooms, it also affects those who study fungal spores for scientific or educational purposes. Critics argue that the law could hinder legitimate research and infringe upon academic freedom. Carlos Hermida, owner of Chillum Mushroom and Hemp Dispensary in Ybor City, expressed his concerns, stating, “We’ve thrown all our liquid cultures away. I think it’s pretty shameful that the legislature would care about these things” . 

Florida Joins Other States with Similar Bans

With this new law, Florida joins states like California, Georgia, and Idaho, which have also enacted bans on psilocybin mushroom spores . These states have taken similar measures to prevent the cultivation and distribution of psychedelic mushrooms. 

Federal vs. State Law

At the federal level, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has stated that mushroom spores not containing psilocybin or psilocin are not controlled substances. However, once these spores are cultivated into mushrooms containing the psychoactive compounds, they fall under the Controlled Substances Act .  Florida’s new law goes a step further by criminalizing the spores themselves, regardless of their current chemical composition. 

Conclusion

Florida’s decision to criminalize psilocybin mushroom spores marks a significant development in the state’s approach to psychedelic substances. While aimed at preventing the cultivation of illegal mushrooms, the law also impacts researchers and enthusiasts who engage with these spores for legitimate purposes. As the law takes effect on July 1, 2025, individuals and businesses involved in mycology should be aware of the new legal landscape and adjust their activities accordingly.