Senator Fuschillo Announces Statewide Ban on Synthetic Marijuana

        Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) recently announced that the sale of synthetic marijuana has been banned throughout New York State.

        Known as the “legal alternative” to marijuana, synthetic marijuana was primarily sold in convenience stores, smoke shops and tobacco stores. Since it is easily accessible and relatively affordable, synthetic marijuana is extremely attractive to young people.

        “Synthetic marijuana is a dangerous substitute for an illegal drug which can cause severe health problems. It has no business being on store shelves,” Senator Fuschillo said. “Banning the sale of synthetic marijuana will help keep this harmful substance out of the hands of young people,”

        With brand names like “Mr. Nice Guy”, “K2”, “Spice”, and “Galaxy Gold”, synthetic marijuana consists of dried herbs coated with chemicals that mimic THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. Users smoke synthetic marijuana to get high, but the substance can cause serious side effects including seizures, vomiting, loss of consciousness, renal failure, and even death.

        The ban was ordered by the New York State Health Commissioner and requires stores to immediately remove synthetic marijuana from their shelves.