Bill
Working closely with Gov. Ed Rendell, state Sen. Richard A. Kasunic (D-Dunbar) today introduced a revised version of his legislation that would strictly limit the sale of products that contain ingredients used to produce the illegal drug methamphetamine. “After numerous productive meetings with the governor and other state officials, I believe this revised meth legislation offers Pennsylvania its best chance for combating this widespread disease of these dangerous labs in our state, ” Kasunic said
Methamphetamine is a synthetic stimulant drug that induces strong euphoric feelings, but can be very addictive. Pure meth is a colorless crystalline. It is often sold on the street as “glass”, “ice”, or “crystal.” The drug is also sold as less pure crystalline powder termed “crank” or “speed.”
In April, Kasunic introduced legislation aimed at restricting the common compounds that are used to make the drug. Taking notice, Rendell also called for tough and restrictive anti-meth legislation as one of his key legislative priorities for the fall legislative session.
Kasunic said he worked closely with the governor in crafting a revised bill that meets the governor’s concerns and also complies with federal legislation.
The new Kasunic bill (Senate Bill 955) would impose several restrictions on the sale of compounds containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine (often used in cold remedy medications). The purchase of products containing these compounds would be limited to 7.5 grams per month.
The legislation would also restrict the sale of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine products to behind-the-counter pharmacies, and require druggists to keep a log of all transactions involving these ingredients.
Kasunic added that couriers who illegally transport these products would face up to 10 years in jail and a fine up to $25,000.
“Keeping the compounds away from the pushers who make this drug in dangerous labs will help keep this drug off the streets and away from our children,” Kasunic said.
“Other states that enacted these kinds of restrictions have seen a stark drop in meth labs,” Kasunic said. “Without these restrictions, these illegal labs will continue to sprout up all over our state.”
Apart from the inherent dangers of the drug, Kasunic said meth labs are rife with dangerous fumes that can easily cause fires and explosions. Following arrests, cleaning up the labs can be very costly and dangerous.