Texas residents are using a variety of synthetic substances — like K2 and “pinky” — for recreational and intoxicating purposes. Some of these substances are more dangerous to the health and body than others. Nevertheless, the chemical components of these substances are largely unregulated, so police have had a difficult time combatting them.
If, for example, police catch you in possession of the synthetic opioid known as “pinky,” you may not suffer as harsh a criminal consequence as if they find you with heroin. This situation, however, could change.
Legislators want to pass stricter synthetic drug laws
In response to the rise in popularity of synthetic marijuana and synthetic opioids, Texas legislators have introduced a new bill that would give law enforcement agencies more power to pursue people in possession of these substances. If the proposed legislation becomes law, it would re-categorize the chemical components of certain synthetic drugs into the same high-level penalty groups as heroin and cocaine.
According to State Representative Jay Dean, who introduced the new bill, synthetic drugs and other designer substances affect people from all walks of life, but especially those from lower socioeconomic parts of the community. The representative says that those who cannot afford actual marijuana, for example, may resort to cheaper, synthetic versions, which can have damaging effects on the body.
Primary focus is on “K2” and “Pinky”
The bill’s primary focus addresses the use of synthetic marijuana substances like K2. In addition, it addresses the synthetic opioid known as “Pink” or “Pinky” by reclassifying it as a Group 1 drug, so it’s in the same category as meth, cocaine and heroin.
Were you accused of synthetic drug possession?
Texas residents who buy or use synthetic drugs on a regular basis need to keep abreast of the law to understand the potential criminal consequences associated with these substances. Also, those accused of possessing synthetic drugs may want to hire a criminal defense lawyer familiar with the latest Texas drug laws to help them in the navigation of their legal proceedings.