Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 from 12:00-1:30pm PST

Join our discussion on the groundbreaking efforts to establish federal safe harbor for psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals with life-threatening conditions. We’ll explore the current legal status of psilocybin as a Schedule I substance, the challenges this poses for access to therapy, and potential pathways for change, including the Right to Try Act and rescheduling efforts. We’ll also delve into the significant litigation, AIMS et al v. DEA, and its impact on inspiring federal bills like the Right to Try Clarification Act and the Breakthrough Therapies Act. This is a critical conversation about expanding treatment options and improving access to innovative therapies. This community forum will feature Sunil Kumar, integrative palliative care and rehabilitation medicine physician, co-founder and co-director of AIMS Institute in Seattle; Shane Pennington, a former law clerk to federal judges that counsels clients facing complex regulatory issues; and Britt Rollins, co-founder of the National Psychedelics Association and a seasoned communications strategist in healthcare.

Integrative palliative care and rehabilitation medicine physician, medical geographer. Co-founder and co-director of AIMS Institute in Seattle, WA. Affiliate Assistant Professor of Geography and Medicine, University of Washington.

Shane Pennington is a partner in the Litigation Department of Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP’s Washington, DC office and serves as the co-chair of the firm’s Administrative and Regulatory Law Practice Group. He counsels clients on federal regulatory issues involving a number of industries, including energy, pharmaceuticals, controlled substances, aviation and agriculture. A former law clerk to federal judges on the D.C. Circuit, the Fifth Circuit and the D.C. District Court, Shane brings unique insight and strategic thinking to assist clients facing complex regulatory issues.

Britt Rollins is a career communications strategist in the healthcare and pharmaceutical marketing sectors, known for his strategic acumen and innovative approach. As a Co-Founder of the National Psychedelics Association, he brings an extensive background in brand strategy and communication from his time at global agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi, DDB, and Real Chemistry. His expertise extends pharmaceutical brand launches, FDA indication expansions, and rebranding initiatives. Britt’s career has spanned across major global cities like New York, London, and San Francisco, where he has left a significant impact. He also sits on the Chacruna Institute’s Advisory Board. In addition to his professional roles, Britt is deeply committed to mental health advocacy. His roles with the Educational Foundation of America, Veterans of War and Chacruna demonstrate his dedication to societal wellbeing. Since 2018, Britt has focused both his professional and philanthropic work to focus on improving mental health through psychedelic healing.

The Fight to Advance Psilocybin Therapy for Life-Threatening Conditions