The Rapid Spread of Synthetic Narcotics

The commentary (Editorial Pages, Sept. 9) by California Atty. Gen. John Van de Kamp should strike a chord of concern in every citizen in the state. The rapid spread of the problem of synthetic narcotics--the so-called “designer drugs”--poses a new threat to our young people. Yet, now, those who peddle this type of poison can hide behind a screen of legality just one step ahead of law enforcement authorities.

As pointed out in the attorney general’s article, drug manufacturers can produce a synthetic substance with an ever so slightly different chemical composition than heroin, which is far more potent than the illicit natural drug and can be sold on the street at a far lower price. It is not surprising, then, that the evil geniuses who manufacture these substances seek only one thing--to market a drug that barely falls outside the controlled substances list. They have little or no concern about the side effects resulting from their chemical alterations. In many instances use of these illegal substances result in death, severe brain damage, and long-term physical dysfunctions. A significant number of the first users of synthetic heroin have contracted Parkinson’s disease.

I have introduced legislation in Congress, HR 2977, which would make it illegal to manufacture, possess, or distribute “designer drugs” or chemical analogs of narcotics currently on the controlled substances list. Clearly, the target is the drug pusher trying to stay one step ahead of the law. This bill would outlaw synthetic narcotics substantially similar in chemical structure to that of a controlled substance or purposely manufactured to produce an effect similar to that of a controlled narcotic.

Violation of this law would be punishable by imprisonment for not more than 15 years and a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. This measure also insures that the rights of those involved in legitimate research and development of pharmaceuticals are protected.

Law enforcement agencies need an effective and immediate tool to combat this deadly new challenge in the war against drug abuse. Clandestine chemists must not gain momentum in producing “designer drugs” with the lure of lucrative financial gains with little or no legal risks.

The increased availability of illicit narcotics, synthetic or otherwise, poses a direct threat to every person in California. Even if a family is not directly affected by the abuse of narcotics, drug pushers and users often prey upon unsuspecting citizens through robbery and burglary to support their drug habit. Californians should contact state and federal elected representatives to voice support for legislation to combat the problem of “designer drugs.”

DANIEL L. LUNGREN

Member of Congress

42nd District

Long Beach