July 1 Bill is Working to Remove K2 from Store Shelves Permanently

By Cindy Denby

The abuse of synthetic "designer drugs" often referred to as K2 and spice has become a prominent issue in our state as well as around the country. These drugs are designed to have the mind altering effects of marijuana, cocaine, and other powerful drugs without showing up on a drug test. Recent news headlines have proved these drugs have very dangerous side effects including hallucinations, violence, and psychotic behaviors and sometimes death.

The scary thing is that these substances are available on shelves of many local convenience stores, gas stations and smoke shops for legal purchase in hopes of an "inexpensive" high. Law enforcement officials have been doing all they can to combat to fight this problem, but so far the definitions in the law have not been able to keep pace with every minor change manufacturers are making to circumvent the law.

My colleagues and I are working at the state level to pass new legislation that will get these drugs off the shelves for good, no matter what name or form they take. The state House Judiciary Committee has approved a bill that is being sent to the House for consideration. The bill will give the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs the ability to temporarily name these types of products controlled substances, which will help to quickly identify and eliminate the sale of dangerous, mid-altering products. This bill is a part of a four bill package that lists chemical classifications that are prohibited and gives the state police the authority to remove these drugs from the store by July 1 if the businesses have not already done so.

While we are doing our part at the state level, I am so pleased that the issue is being addressed in our local communities. I want to applaud local officials, police officers, and citizens for fighting to get these dangerous drugs off the shelves. The efforts of everyone working together on this issue are going to keep our communities and our children safe from these harmful drugs.  

Individuals with medical concerns or questions about synthetic drugs are asked to call the Michigan Toxic Hotline at (800) 648-6942 or visit www.michigan.gov/substanceabuseepi.

If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov.