Local Legislators Call for Emergency Ban on K2/Spice in Genesee County

The push to limit the availability of synthetic drugs continues for local legislators, law enforcement and a drug prevention group.

State Reps. Joseph Graves (R-Argentine Twp.) and Jim Ananich (D-Flint) urged the Genesee County Commission Tuesday to consider adopting an emergency ordinance to fight the spread of K2, Spice and other synthetic drugs.

The makers of synthetic drugs, known as K2, spice, and bath salts, have found
loopholes in current state laws that allow them to continue making these  substances available.

As the Legislature swiftly moves on additional protections at the state level, a number of communities across Michigan are pursuing local measures as well.

"It's important that we all work together to keep our communities safe and get these dangerous drugs off our streets," State Reps. Joseph Graves (R-Argentine Twp.) stated in a news release. "Regardless of what name the drug is called, these synthetic drugs are dangerous and everyone in our communities needs to be aware of this issue. We are taking action to protect our communities today and prevent further tragedy tomorrow."

The Fenton Police Department sent out a letter to area businesses asking them not to sell The Fenton Township drug prevention group . is planning to talk about the substance in a meeting at 7 p.m. Monday at .

West Bloomfield approved an this week.

The recently dealing with the problem and the House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on the issue in Lansing Tuesday morning. Representatives Graves and Ananich have been working together on efforts to prevent drug abuse through the formation of Community Parent and legislation to get unused prescription drugs off the street. The drug disposal bills, HB 5089 and 5090, were approved in the House of Representatives today.

“We need to be working together in a swift, comprehensive manner to keep our families safe from these dangerous drugs,” said Ananich in a news release. “Raising awareness and providing additional tools to law enforcement are important steps in this fight to protect our community.”