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Friday, March 29, 2024

Fla. AG files emergency rule over four synthetic drugs

Bondi

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Legal Newsline) - Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi filed an emergency rule on Wednesday to outlaw four new synthetic drugs and increase penalties for individuals selling, manufacturing or delivering the drugs.

The emergency rule designated Fluoro ABDICA, ADB-PINACA, AB-FUBINACA and B-PINACA as Schedule I controlled substances. The sale, manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to sell, manufacture or deliver of Schedule I controlled substances can result in a third-degree felony charge.

Synthetic drugs can cause side effects such as hallucinations, psychotic episodes, paranoia, tremors, seizures and more, Bondi says. She added that she would work with the Florida legislature during the 2014 legislative session to permanently ban synthetic drugs.

"I will remain vigilant in my efforts to keep these drugs off store shelves and will continue to outlaw emergent synthetic drug compounds," Bondi said. "These drugs pose a serious threat to Floridians, particularly our youth. I thank the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for their continued partnership in the fight against synthetic drugs."

Synthetic drugs are marketed as safe alternatives to illegal drugs, Bondi says. Despite the marketing claims, more than 11,000 emergency room visits nationwide involved a synthetic cannabinoid product in 2010, according to the Drug Abuse Warning Network.

Bondi previously worked with the Florida legislature to add bath salts, K2 and Spice to the schedule of controlled substances.

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