Michigan State Representatives have spent the past five months working on new legislation to ban chemical synthetic drugs which have been gaining popularity at an alarming rate. Substances known as K2, “Spice”, BZP, and LOL could all be affected.
While some of these substances are marketed as synthetic marijuana, they are far from all natural or harmless. Instead, they are chemical compounds which even the creator states are highly dangerous.
The scientist who developed the chemical compounds in K2 to study the effects on chemicals in the brain as a research project states “The people who smoke it are idiots” according to The Detroit News. While he tested his creations on mice he states they weren’t designed for human consumption.
Medical practitioners and poison control centers across the nation have seen an alarming increase in side effects of these chemicals including seizures, vomiting, increased heart rate, and hallucinations.
The problem in regulating these products is that they are lab created and while legislation may ban some of the chemicals, a slight alteration in the molecules can sidestep the laws.
Under proposed state legislation, possession of K2 would be considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in prison. However, the bill won’t go before the legislature until sometime in 2011. The DEA is also making moves to ban 5 of the chemicals used in these “drugs”. The federal ban will be a temporary order that last 1 year. After that time they can extend it, modify it, or adopt it permanently.
The majority of “customers” of these synthetic drugs are teens. And it seems this is a driving factor in the legislation. Thrill seeking teens can get many of these products over the internet or in local tobacco shops, making it far easier to obtain than alcohol or other controlled substances like marijuana.
Michigan drug laws are notoriously harsh. Facing prison time for possession of marijuana for instance is quite the extreme penalty and one that should be taken very seriously if you are facing such charges.
Although possession of K2 and spice aren’t considered illegal right now that will likely change this coming year and law enforcement, defense attorneys, and the courts will have to adapt to the changes, dealing with people who wouldn’t have faced any legal repercussions for their actions only a month or two prior.
If you’re facing drug charges you need the assistance of a local defense attorney. Whether it’s ecstasy, marijuana, or meth—you need an advocate on your side helping you in court to get the best results possible. Contact our offices for a free consultation on your case today.