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CHPA: MI Gov. Snyder Takes Decisive Action Against Meth Criminals

WASHINGTON, June 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) today applauded Michigan Governor Rick Snyder for signing a package of legislation late last week that significantly enhances the state’s ability to crack down on meth-related crime.

Specifically, the governor signed House Bill 5363, a bill sponsored by state Representative Amanda Price that prohibits an individual from purchasing pseudoephedrine (PSE) or ephedrine-based medicine with the knowledge that it will be used in the manufacture of meth. Violation of that law carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. The governor also signed House Bill 5089, which prohibits a person from purchasing PSE or ephedrine-based medicines on behalf of a meth criminal—a criminal enterprise known as "smurfing." That bill was sponsored by state Representative Bob Genetski. A related bill, House Bill 5090, which was authored by state Representative Aric Nesbitt, classifies smurfing as a felony offense. Governor Snyder signed that bill as well.

"Governor Snyder’s action is a significant development for all concerned citizens in Michigan and the end result of the extraordinary work of a bipartisan group of state lawmakers who are committed to winning the battle against meth," said Carlos Gutierrez, senior director and head of government affairs for CHPA. "By signing the package into law, the governor is putting would-be smurfers on notice: If you purchase pseudoephedrine on behalf of a meth cook or dealer, you are committing a very serious crime."

"Importantly, the governor and the legislature have chosen a route that targets the criminals who are responsible for Michigan’s meth problem," Gutierrez continued. "By doing so, they have protected law-abiding citizens’ access to the cold and allergy medicines they rely on."

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) is the 133-year-old trade association representing the leading manufacturers and marketers of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and dietary supplements. Every dollar spent by consumers on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $6-$7, contributing a total of $102 billion in savings each year. CHPA is committed to promoting the increasingly vital role of over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements in America’s healthcare system through science, education, and advocacy.

chpa.org

SOURCE Consumer Healthcare Products Association

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