Stronger Laws To Ban Psychoactive Substances

The State Government has announced legislation will be introduced into State Parliament this week to close a legal loophole and clamp down on the promotion, sale and supply of new psychoactive substances.

“These synthetic drugs can cause serious health problems including tremors, chest pains, increased heart rate and blood pressure, seizures and an altered mental state. The legislation will help remove these substances from circulation within the community,” Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney said.

“These substances are extremely worrying for parents concerned about their children having access to them and the Government has moved to eradicate them from shop shelves.”

Mr Blayney said the legislation will make a real difference for the local community of Geraldton.

The new laws will give WA Police the power to seize and destroy a substance that has a psychoactive effect.

It includes penalties of $48,000 or four years’ jail for the manufacture, sale or supply of psychoactive substances and the promotion of synthetic drugs attracts a $24,000 fine or two years’ jail.

“This Bill will control these potentially harmful substances that have no legitimate use and help remove them from circulation in Western Australia.”

Those concerned about alcohol or drug use can call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service for support and referral on 9442 5000 or visit http://drugaware.com.au/Drug-Information.aspx