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Wonderling Introduces Legislation to Prevent Methamphetamine
Production
HARRISBURG -- Sen.
Rob Wonderling (R-24) has introduced legislation to prevent meth producers from
legally purchasing large quantities of an important component needed to
manufacture the drug.
Senate Bill 879 would limit the
sale of pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cold
medicines. Consumers would be limited to purchasing nine grams per
transaction. Wonderling pointed out that customers could still buy medicines
that contain psuedoephedrine, but the restriction on buying large quantities of
the stimulant would deter production of methamphetamines.
“This legislation will reduce
access to one of their most important ingredients for making meth without
placing undue restrictions on individuals who use psuedophedrine legally to
treat cold symptoms,” Wonderling said. “This is an issue that I have been very
interested in addressing, and I am pleased that the Governor has added his voice
to the ongoing discussion for this common-sense measure to better protect our
communities.”
Methamphetamines are highly
addictive and can cause violent and psychotic behavior, as well as brain damage
similar to damage caused by Alzheimer's disease, stroke and epilepsy. According
to the Office of National Drug Control Policy, approximately 7 percent of high
school students reported using methamphetamines in their lifetime.
Rep. Matthew Good (R-3) has
introduced similar legislation in the House of Representatives.
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