Salvia Divinorum

(Best Syndication News) SACRAMENTO – Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill 259 on Tuesday by Assemblyman Anthony Adams (R-Hesperia), making the sale or distribution of the hallucinogenic drug “Salvia Divinorum” to any person under the age of 18 a misdemeanor in the State of California. California now joins 11 other states in the country that currently have state-wide laws regulating the possession of the drug.

“Today was a big win for California families. Whenever we can keep a dangerous hallucinogenic drug out of the hands of our children, we’re doing something right,” said Adams. “I feel certain this law will help curb the rapid growth in use of this drug among teenagers and getting out in front of a drug trend like this will save countless lives and prevent irreparable havoc on families and society.”

Salvia Divinorum is a naturally grown, mint-like leaf which has been equated to providing users with experiences similar to that of the mind-altering drug LSD. Side effects include uncontrollable hysteria, an out of body experience, and a feeling of total confusion or near-madness.

The need for legislation to regulate the drug was first brought to Adams’ attention by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department after deputies were reporting an increased use of the drug. While some states have already taken the lead in completely banning the drug, it was still completely legal to posses and use in California.

“AB 259 gives law enforcement a tool to further protect our juveniles from using a dangerous substance,” said San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner, Gary Penrod. “This gives us a chance to be proactive in our efforts rather than reactive after some tragedy. I am pleased that Governor Schwarzenegger recognized the importance of this bill and signed AB 259 into law.”

Assemblyman Adams represents the 59th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Hesperia, Apple Valley, Glendora, Claremont, La Verne, San Bernardino, San Dimas, Monrovia, Highland, Lake Arrowhead, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, Bradbury, La Crescenta-Montrose and Redlands.

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By: Rebecca Bloomfield
Office of Assemblyman Anthony Adams, 59th Dist.
Press Secretary/Field Representative
Tel: (909) 625-1038
Fax: (909) 625-1063
Toll-Free: (888) 377-2212
Cell: (760) 887-5191

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