Who is exempt from laws prohibiting the use of Peyote for bona fide religious beliefs?

The reason Native Americans are exempt from laws prohibiting the use of Peyote is rooted in the legal recognition of their cultural practices and religious beliefs. This exemption acknowledges the significance of Peyote in certain Indigenous religious ceremonies, particularly among tribes like the Huichol and the Native American Church. The American Indian Religious Freedom Act and subsequent legal interpretations allow members of federally recognized tribes to use Peyote as part of their spiritual practices, highlighting the respect for their traditional rights.

This recognition is important for preserving Indigenous cultures and ensuring that their religious practices are not unduly restricted by statutory laws that apply to the general population. Therefore, the exemption specifically pertains to Native Americans who use Peyote within the context of their sincere and established religious traditions.