News & Columns > G.T. Houts > Under Age Sales of Salvia Divinorum Halted

Under Age Sales of Salvia Divinorum Halted

Authored by Assemblyman Anthony Adams

By G.T. Houts
Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Sacramento, CA — Governor Schwarzenegger has signed Assembly Bill 259 by Assemblyman Anthony Adams (R-Hesperia), making the sale or distribution of the hallucinogenic drug "Salvia Divinorum" to any person under the age of 18 a misdemeanor in the State of California.

California now joins 11 other states in the country that currently have statewide laws regulating the possession of the drug.

"This is a big win for California families. Whenever we can keep a dangerous hallucinogenic drug out of the hands of our children, we're doing something right," said Adams. "I feel certain this law will help curb the rapid growth in use of this drug among teenagers and getting out in front of a drug trend like this will save countless lives and prevent irreparable havoc on families and society."

Assemblyman Anthony Adams (R-Hesperia) (Photo by State of California.)

Salvia Divinorum is a naturally grown, mint-like leaf which has been equated to providing users with experiences similar to that of the mind-altering drug LSD. Side effects include uncontrollable hysteria, an out of body experience, and a feeling of total confusion or near-madness.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department first brought the need for legislation to regulate the drug to Adams' attention after deputies were reporting an increased use of the drug. While some states have already taken the lead in completely banning the drug, it was still completely legal to posses and use in California.

Salvia Divinorum (Photo by Stock.)

"AB 259 gives law enforcement a tool to further protect our juveniles from using a dangerous substance," said San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner, Gary Penrod. "This gives us a chance to be proactive in our efforts rather than reactive after some tragedy. I am pleased that Governor Schwarzenegger recognized the importance of this bill and signed AB 259 into law."

Assemblyman Adams represents the 59th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Hesperia, Apple Valley, Glendora, Claremont, La Verne, San Bernardino, San Dimas, Monrovia, Highland, Lake Arrowhead, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, Bradbury, La Crescenta-Montrose and Redlands.