Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson, on Wednesday, signed a bill into law today that will ban certain chemicals that are used to create synthetic cannabinoids. This brings the total number of bills signed during the 2010 legislative session to seven.
“This legislation has received overwhelming support by Kansas law enforcement and the legislature,” Parkinson said. “It will help improve our communities by better equipping law enforcement officers in addressing this issue and deterring Kansans from drug use.”
HB 2411 would amend the Kansas Uniform Controlled Substances Act to expand the list of Schedule I controlled substances to include certain synthetic cannabinoids — the chemical compounds HU-210, JWH-018, JWH-073, BZP, and TFMPP.
The bill would make it illegal to possess, use, or sell these drugs. The legislation goes into effect upon publication in the Kansas Register.
“We've drawn national attention to the dangers of synthetic drugs. This is a win for Kansas,” said Rep. Rob Olson, R-Olathe, who introduced the bill. “Not only did we raise awareness about this issue among Kansas parents but we've also helped legislators and families in 49 other states protect their children today.”
House Bill 2411 adds these five named compounds as well as those similar in chemical structure to the state’s Schedule I list and makes possession, use, sale and possession with intent to sell them and products such as K2 containing them illegal in Kansas.
“This bill makes sure changes in the law keep up with changes in chemistry,” said Senate Majority Leader Derek Schmidt, R-Independence. “It’s an important step to take to keep this new product from becoming a drug of choice for Kansas kids.”
In addition, Friday Parkinson plans to sign a bill that will ban smoking in bars, restaurants and other public places.
A ceremony has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday in the south wing of the Statehouse’s second floor. Parkinson is also planning on re-enacting the signing on Monday in Kansas City, Kan. and Salina.
The bill was approved two weeks ago and will take effect on July 1.
The legislation bans smoking in restaurants and bars as well as retail stores, libraries, theaters and most places of employment.
Exceptions to the ban include tobacco shops, private clubs and designated smoking areas in nursing homes. However, the biggest issue with the bill was leaving out gambling areas of new state-owned casinos.
Matthew Clark can be reached at matthew.clark@morningsun.net or at 620-231-2600, Ext. 140
