'Bath Salts' Synthetic Drugs Now Illegal

Last week Governor Brewer signed a bill that criminalizes the sale, possession and use of synthetic chemicals known as “Bath Salts.” Until now the “Bath salts” have been sold under various brand names at many local stores.

Gila County Attorney Daisy Flores says creative manufacturers develop alternative components to substances that are not yet illegal and the current system is slow to respond. She says the state is now working to assure that new dangerous synthetic drugs can be addressed as soon as they hit the market.

The effects of “Bath Salts” are similar to amphetamines like ecstacy and cocaine. The new law permanently removes these drugs from retail outlets in Arizona and criminalizes possession and use. An emergency clause allows law enforcement to take immediate steps agianst these substances, even if they are marked “not for human consumption.”