Bill would toughen prohibition on synthetic cannabinoids.
By THE STAR STAFF
District 22 Rep. Joe “Joito” Colón Rodríguez on Tuesday introduced House Bill 1188, which seeks to strengthen the prohibition of the manufacture, sale, distribution, possession and use of synthetic cannabinoids in Puerto Rico.
These products, created entirely in a laboratory to mimic THC, can be between 10 and 100 times more potent than natural cannabis and are sold under names such as “K2,” “Spice” and “Black Mamba,” often deceptively labeled as “incense” or “potpourri.” They pose a serious health risk, especially to young people, and can cause seizures, hallucinations, hospitalizations and death.
The bill:
* Expressly prohibits the sale and use of synthetic cannabinoid products.
* Applies penalties under the Controlled Substances Act and an additional $50,000 fine for deceptive labeling.
* Authorizes the departments of Health, Justice and Consumer Affairs, as well as the Mental Health & Anti-Addiction Services Administration and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau, to inspect, seize and confiscate the products.
* Mandates prevention programs in schools and inter-agency collaboration to educate and assist those affected.
“We cannot allow these lethal substances to continue circulating in our communities,” stated the representative for Utuado, Ciales, Lares, Jayuya and Adjuntas. “The health of our youth and adults is at risk, and we must act now.”
