Is Psilocybin Legal in Illinois?

When people ask whether mushrooms are legal in Illinois, they’re usually referring to psilocybin mushrooms—commonly known as magic mushrooms or psychedelic mushrooms. These naturally occurring fungi contain compounds like psilocybin and psilocin, which are known for their profound effects on consciousness, mental health, and perception.

The Short Answer

No, psilocybin mushrooms are not currently legal in Illinois. Under both federal and state law, psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, meaning it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use—despite growing evidence to the contrary from modern scientific research.

But That's Not The Whole Story

While psilocybin remains illegal in Illinois, the conversation is evolving—and fast.

Across the country, cities and states are rethinking their approach to psychedelics. Oregon and Colorado have led the way with statewide decriminalization and regulated therapeutic programs. Dozens of cities—from Ann Arbor to Oakland—have passed local measures deprioritizing arrests for possession of entheogenic plants and fungi. Illinois is part of this broader movement for change.

In 2023 and 2025, Illinois lawmakers introduced the CURE Act (Compassionate Use and Research of Entheogens Act). This groundbreaking legislation would allow adults 18 and older to access psilocybin under the guidance of trained facilitators in state-licensed service centers. While the bill has not yet passed, its introduction marks a major step toward legal access to psychedelics for healing and personal growth.

In 2025 Rep Theresa Mah also introduced the HOPE Pilot Program to expand access to legal psilocybin therapy in Illinois.

What's the Law Right Now?

Here’s what you should know:

• Possession of psilocybin is a felony in Illinois. Penalties can include prison time and fines, depending on the amount and circumstances.

• Mushroom spores, which do not contain psilocybin or psilocin, can sometimes be sold legally for microscopy purposes. However, cultivating those spores into psychoactive mushrooms is still illegal.

• Religious or spiritual use of psilocybin is not explicitly protected under Illinois law.

A Shift in Public Perception

Illinois residents are increasingly open to reconsidering the legal status of psilocybin, especially as studies from institutions like Johns Hopkins, UCLA, and NYU show promising results in treating depression, PTSD, addiction, and end-of-life anxiety. In recent polls, a majority of Americans support legal access to psychedelics in therapeutic settings. Veterans, cancer patients, and survivors of trauma are speaking out about how psilocybin has transformed their lives—and many of them live right here in Illinois.

What's Next?

The Illinois Psychedelic Society is working to educate the public, connect allies, and advocate for policies that prioritize safety, equity, and access. Legalization isn’t just about changing laws—it’s about building the systems and support networks needed for people to heal and grow.

If you're interested in being part of this historic shift, we invite you to:

• Attend a local event or monthly meeting

• Volunteer with our team

• Contact your legislators and share your support for the CURE Act and the HOPE Pilot Program

• Stay informed by joining our newsletter

In Summary

While psilocybin mushrooms are not yet legal in Illinois, change is on the horizon. The CURE Act offers a vision for legal, regulated access rooted in compassion, safety, and science. As awareness grows, so does the possibility for a future where mushrooms can be used not just legally—but wisely, for healing and transformation.