On September 24, state Sen. John Proos introduced Senate Bill 535 that if passed, will result in a Michigan methamphetamine abuse registry. Essentially, any person who is convicted of a meth-related crime would be required to have a prescription in order to buy Sudafed and other cold/allergy medicines containing pseudoephedrine typically sold over-the-counter. Pseudoephedrine is an ingredient used in making meth, a crime that seems to be becoming more and more prevalent in Michigan.
According to the Senator, methamphetamine is a big concern across the state, but particularly in Southwest Michigan. Pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant, is commonly used in the production of meth, including a method known as “shake and bake” in which meth is made in a soft drink bottle.
The amount of pseudoephedrine an individual can purchase on a single day or in any given month has already been capped through a law sponsored by the Senator in 2012. When purchasing products containing this ingredient, an individual’s driver’s license is scanned by the clerk. If that individual has already purchased the limit, he or she will be blocked from purchasing more.
Kalamazoo County had the highest incidence of individuals trying to purchase excessive amounts of pseudoephedrine in 2012; state police statistics indicate that between January of last year and March of this year, the sales of 18.6 million milligrams were blocked. If Senate Bill 535 does pass, those who have been convicted of a methamphetamine offense and who do not have a prescription will not be permitted to purchase products containing the ingredient.
Proos also introduced two other bills separately, which would ultimately leave those who purchase products containing pseudoephedrine for someone else for the purpose of manufacturing meth facing criminal penalties including fines of up to $10,000 and/or up to 10 years in prison.
Michigan drug crime attorneys know that meth manufacturing is a real problem in the state, and that it ruins lives, reputations, and careers. However, those who are accused do have legal rights which must be protected.
If you are under investigation or have been arrested or charged with meth possession or manufacture, or any drug-related offense, contact an experienced and capable Michigan drug crime defense lawyer right away.