July 20, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed legislation that will limit access to ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, key ingredients in the illegal production of methamphetamine.
 
“We must do everything in our power to protect Michigan children and families from those who seek to harm them,” Granholm said.  “These bills place common sense limits on the ingredients needed to produce this highly-addictive illegal drug.”
 
Senate Bill 189 (Public Act 87 of 2005) and House Bill 4322 (Public Act 86 of 2005) require retailers who sell over the counter medicines that contain either ephedrine or pseudoephedrine to either place the medicines behind a counter or in a locked case or place an anti-theft device on the products.  The legislation also makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase these products and limits the amount that can be purchased by an adult each month.
 
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, common ingredients in many cold medicines, are essential ingredients in methamphetamines as well.  Meth is a highly-addictive drug, and production in Michigan has increased significantly in recent years.  The Michigan State Police report that just 18 meth labs were seized in 1999.  That number grew to 209 in 2004.  Already this year, 120 labs have been identified and seized.  In addition, meth production often involves children who are used to purchase ingredients, mix the materials, and sell the product.  Nationwide estimates indicate that roughly one of every three meth incidents involve children.

“These simple precautions will go a long way to reducing the production of meth in Michigan,” said Granholm.  “But we must not allow ourselves to become complacent.  The fight to protect our children and families requires continued vigilance.”
 
SB 189 was sponsored by Senator Patty Birkholz (R-Saugatuck Township).  HB 4322 was sponsored by Representative Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge).

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