[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 188 (Thursday, December 8, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2216]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   SYNTHETIC DRUG CONTROL ACT OF 2011

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. MAZIE K. HIRONO

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 7, 2011

  Ms. HIRONO. Mr. Speaker, I am voting for this legislation because, 
like the rest of my colleagues, I want to see an end to the illegal 
manufacture, sale, and use of synthetic drugs that mimic the properties 
of illegal drugs. Many of these drugs are extremely dangerous and 
warrant control. In fact, some 30 states, including Hawaii, have laws 
that address the manufacture, sale, and use of synthetic drugs.
  I am concerned, however, that we may be moving too fast. I would 
prefer to see a bill that is as important as this considered under 
regular order, with members having an opportunity to offer amendments. 
I am hoping that the Senate will take a more measured approach in 
considering this legislation.
  I am especially concerned about the application of mandatory minimum 
sentences and Schedule I penalties that are included in this bill. I 
support judicial discretion, especially when the lives and futures of 
young people are involved.
  I know too that there are concerns that this could impede legitimate 
scientific research of chemical compounds listed in this bill. 
Adjustments to this legislation may be needed to ensure that we don't 
hinder development of future biomedical breakthroughs.
  We need to make sure the legislation targets those most responsible 
for widespread distribution of these drugs. Most important, we need to 
find ways to keep our young people from using synthetic drugs. 
Education of parents and young people is badly needed as is market 
regulation to reduce the availability and misuse of certain household 
and industrial aerosol products. Adding to our already crowded prisons 
is not a real solution to the very real problem of synthetic drugs.

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