Join Senator Flanagan In Getting Synthetic Marijuana And Bath Salts Out Of Our Communities

Recently, the New York State Senate approved legislation sponsored by Senator Flanagan that would criminalize the sale and possession of synthetic marijuana and “bath salts”.

Synthetic marijuana or “fake pot” are herbs sprayed with chemicals called “synthetic cannabinoids.”   These products -- including Spice, K2, Cloud 9 and Black 9 -- have dangerous side effects, including rapid heart rate, tremors, loss of consciousness and hallucinations.  “Bath salts”, or “substituted cathinones,” are chemically related to methamphetamines and ecstasy that also cause harmful physical and psychological reactions.

While Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law to ban the sale of “bath salts” last year, and just last month the New York State Department of Health banned the sale and distribution of synthetic marijuana through an Order for Summary Action, possession of these substances -- which may be purchased outside the state or via the Internet -- continues to be legal.

The legislation introduced by Senator Flanagan goes a step further and criminalizes the possession of these products.  Under the provisions of this bill, penalties for the sale and possession of synthetic marijuana and bath salts would be similar to those of marijuana and methamphetamines, respectively.  Therefore, sale of these substances to a minor, or on or near school grounds, would constitute a class B felony punishable by up to 25 years imprisonment.

Please fill out the information below if you would like to join the effort by letting the Assembly and the Governor know that you support ridding our communities of these substances.