Quinn touts drug prevention in new Ill. laws

Gov. Pat Quinn says new laws that crack down on such things as key hallucinogenic substances in “bath salts” will strengthen the state’s drug-prevention efforts.

Quinn says four new laws attack the growing problem of bath salt consumption. The laws regulate certain ingredients, expand the definition of drug-induced homicide, and add additional compounds and synthetic substances to the Illinois Controlled Substances Act.

Figures from the American Association of Poison Control Centers show a national spike in the number of people seeking medical attention after using bath salts.

Quinn says officials want to ensure Illinois’ drug policies are aggressive, current and responsive.

The state banned sales of fake marijuana, often described as K2, last year.