Federal Action Advances Psychedelic Research and Policy

MAPS welcomes $50 million investment in studying compounds like ibogaine, psilocybin, and MDMA for mental health treatments

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:59pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the intricate internal structure of a human brain, glowing with an ethereal blue-green light, conceptually illustrating the scientific exploration of psychedelic compounds for mental health treatments.An X-ray view of the human brain hints at the complex neurological mechanisms underlying psychedelic therapies' potential to treat mental health conditions.Washington Today

The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) issued statements welcoming a new federal executive order that will accelerate research and investment into studying psychedelic compounds such as ibogaine, psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA. MAPS emphasized the need for this research to remain grounded in rigorous science, patient safety, and equitable access, while also calling for alignment with global public health principles including cultural respect, sustainability, and community engagement.

Why it matters

This federal action signals growing recognition that psychedelic-assisted therapies may play a role in addressing urgent mental health challenges like PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. However, expanding access to these treatments must be paired with strong ethical frameworks, collaboration with Indigenous communities, and a public health-first approach to ensure safety and equity.

The details

The executive order directs federal agencies to reduce barriers to clinical research and accelerate drug approvals for psychedelic substances. In addition to MAPS' advanced research on MDMA, other psychedelic compounds like ibogaine, LSD, and psilocybin show promise in early- and mid-stage studies for treating conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. MAPS has previously conducted ibogaine studies and is now developing Open Science resources to support further research, while also calling for responsible global partnerships and protections against extractive or commercial approaches as these treatments are incorporated into medicine.

  • The executive order was issued on April 18, 2026.

The players

Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful use of psychedelics and marijuana.

Ismail L. Ali, J.D.

Co-Executive Director of MAPS.

Betty Aldworth

Co-Executive Director of MAPS.

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What they’re saying

“As federal agencies are directed to reduce barriers to clinical research and accelerate drug approvals for psychedelic substances, it is critical that these efforts remain grounded in transparent, evidence-based processes.”

— Ismail L. Ali, J.D., Co-Executive Director, MAPS

“Expanding access to treatment must come with strong ethical commitments: frameworks developed with Indigenous people, responsible global partnerships, accessible public education, and protections against extractive or purely commercial approaches.”

— Betty Aldworth, Co-Executive Director, MAPS

What’s next

Federal agencies will now work to implement the executive order by reducing barriers to psychedelic research and accelerating drug approvals, while ensuring these efforts remain grounded in rigorous science, patient safety, and equitable access.

The takeaway

This federal action reflects growing recognition of the potential for psychedelic-assisted therapies to address urgent mental health challenges, but successful implementation will require a careful balance of scientific rigor, ethical frameworks, and a public health-first approach to ensure these treatments are developed and deployed responsibly.