September 25, 2013

Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control to Hold Hearing on Dangerous Synthetic Drugs

The hearing examined the impact of dangerous synthetic drugs, such as Molly, K2, Spice and so-called “bath salts” and ways in which drug traffickers are circumventing existing law. Senator Feinstein recently introduced the Protecting Our Youth from Dangerous Synthetic Drugs Act of 2013 to combat synthetic drugs designed to mimic the effects of controlled substances like ecstasy, PCP and LSD, as well as THC, the principal chemical in marijuana. These controlled substance analogues are currently inadequately controlled under existing federal drug laws.

Opening Statements

CHAIRMAN (D - CA)

Dianne Feinstein

Sen. Feinstein’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery.

CO-CHAIR (R - IA)

Chuck Grassley

Sen. Grassely’s opening statement, as prepared for delivery.

Witnesses

Michael Botticelli

Deputy Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy

Nora Volkow, M.D.

Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse

Joseph T. Rannazzisi

Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Diversion Control Drug Enforcement Administration

Timothy Heaphy

U.S. Attorney, Western District of Virginia U.S. Attorney’s Office