STATEHOUSE (Feb. 2, 2016) – The Indiana House of Representatives passed a bill authored by State Rep. David Frizzell (R-Indianapolis) that would expand law enforcement’s ability to curb the prevalence of methamphetamine labs around the state.
Pseudoephedrine (PSE), an ingredient in certain cold medications, is a key precursor for manufacturing meth. Currently, it must be kept behind pharmacy counters and dispensed according to daily, monthly and yearly individual purchase limits. House Bill (HB) 1157 would build on these efforts by keeping PSE accessible to consumers, but make it illegal for all individuals convicted of a drug-related felony to possess these medications without a prescription.
“Keeping precursors such as PSE out of the wrong hands is the first logical step in combating the meth lab epidemic across our state,” Frizzell said. “The impact has taken a toll on Hoosiers and this bill directly addresses one of the most serious drug problems facing Indiana.”
Indiana has led the nation in the number of meth lab busts for each of the last three years.
The National Precursor Log Exchange (NPLEx) would be instructed to issue stop-sale alerts in real time when drug-related felons attempt to purchase PSE without a prescription.
HB 1157 heads to the Senate for consideration.
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Rep. Frizzell represents a portion of Marion and Johnson counties.
NOTE TO THE EDITOR: Click here to download a high-definition, on camera interview with Rep. Frizzell regarding HB 1157.
