COLUMBIA (WACH)-- The Department of Health and Environmental Control is planning to pass an emergency regulation that would ban synthetic drugs like “bath salts” and synthetic marijuana in South Carolina.
DHEC spokesman Adam Myrick says the regulation would ban the sale, manufacturing and purchase of the chemicals found in the drugs.
Myrick says the ban would stay in effect until the Drug Enforcement Administration makes synthetic drugs illegal nationwide, or until state lawmakers pass legislation banning them.
Myrick expects the agency to pass the regulation in the next few days.
The ingredients found in “bath salts” produce a “high” similar to cocaine or methamphetamine. Substances known as “K2” and “Spice” produce a “high” similar to marijuana.
Over the weekend, Upstate officials say an Anderson University basketball player died after ingesting a chemical used in synthetic marijuana.
Authorities say 19-year-old Lamar Jack died after collapsing on the court.
The City of Columbia has already banned “bath salts” and synthetic marijuana.
Violators could face 30-days in jail and a $500 fine.
The Richland County Council is currently considering an ordinance that would ban synthetic drugs.
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