Massachusetts voters reject legalizing psychedelics and approve eliminating high school test requirements

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts voters have rejected a measure legalize some psychedelicsbut said yes to dropping comprehensive testing as a requirement for obtaining a high school diploma. These issues were among five measures presented to voters on Tuesday. Voters also said yes to auditing the Legislature and no to raising the minimum hourly wage for tip-collecting workers. A fifth ballot measure was too early to call. It would give union rights for drivers for taxi companies such as Uber and Lyft.

Reports: Legalizing psychedelics

The voting would have allowed residents aged 21 and older to grow and use plant-based psychedelics in certain circumstances. Two other states have legalized a number of mind-altering drugs that are considered illegal by the federal government.

The psychedelics in question included psilocybin and psilocyn, both found in so-called ‘magic mushrooms’; and mescaline, dimethyltryptamine and ibogaine from plants.

Critics of the proposal warned that it could lead to a black market. They also argued that centers selling the drugs would not be stopped from giving psychedelics to people considered high risk, such as people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Approved: Eliminating the requirement to pass tests for a high school diploma

Until now, Massachusetts students had to take extensive tests to earn a high school diploma. The ballot issue does not eliminate the tests, but specifies that passing them will no longer be required for graduation.

The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System tests are given in math, science and technology, and English.

Instead of passing the tests, students must complete courses certified by the local school district and meet the state’s academic standards for the subjects.

Teachers unions are among the strongest critics of using the tests as a graduation requirement, saying “teaching to the test” limits their ability to give students a more complete education.

Proponents of the tests argued that without the requirement, school districts will have lower standards so students can graduate. They said it is unfair to award degrees to students who are not ready.

Reported: Minimum wage increase for tipped workers

Voters rejected a proposal to gradually increase how much employers must pay workers who collect tips, such as waiters at restaurants.

The state wage for tipped workers is now $6.75 per hour, while the… minimum hourly wage for most other employees is $15. If an employee doesn’t earn enough in tips to bring them up to $15 an hour, the employer must make up the difference.

Under the proposal, employers would have to pay tipped workers $9.60 per hour starting Jan. 1, equivalent to the state’s full minimum wage in early 2029.

Supporters believed that tips should be a reward for good service, not a subsidy for low wages. Critics said the proposal would have lowered overall wages for servers, raised costs for restaurants and customers and could have forced some neighborhood restaurants to close.

Approved: Authorizing an audit of the state legislature

Voters gave the state auditor the power to audit the legislature.

The ballot measure was led by State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who previously served in both the state House and Senate. She said the passage is a victory for those who want a more open state government.

“The people of Massachusetts want the equality, transparency and accountability that a legislative audit would bring,” she said.

Critics had said the question would violate the separation of powers enshrined in the Massachusetts Constitution.

Democratic Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Ronald Mariano released a statement saying they will consider “how best to respect the election results of Question 1 in a manner consistent with the fundamental principles of the Massachusetts Constitution, including the separation of powers.”

Too early to call: Allowing Uber and Lyft drivers to unionize

Drivers for ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft are considered independent contractors who do not have the right to unionize under federal law.

The proposal would allow them to unite in Massachusetts. Drivers would not be required to participate. On the business side, companies could join forces through associations that would represent their common interests in negotiations.

The state would have the right to approve negotiated contracts. The proposal would also create a hearing when a company or union is accused of unfair labor practices.

Unions pushed for change, despite a settlement announced in June by the attorney general’s office guaranteeing that Uber and Lyft drivers earn a minimum wage of $32.50 per hour.

Opponents said the measure would raise prices for motorcyclists without directly benefiting drivers and would create what they call a “new radical employment category” that is inconsistent with federal labor law. Critics also say drivers already enjoy benefits, including higher hourly wages and paid sick and sick leave.

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Associated Press journalist Nick Perry contributed to this report from Meredith, New Hampshire.