Bell Blocks MP Jonathan Young welcomed the enactment this week of the Psychoactive Substances Bill. A range of effective prohibitions and penalties for breaches of the new law come into immediate effect. These include:
No sales from dairies or any sort of grocery store, petrol stations, or anywhere alcohol is sold;
No sales to under 18 year olds;
No advertising, except at the point of sale;
Strict labelling requirements.
“After more than two years of considerable hard work, New Zealand finally has a tool with which to address the scourge of unregulated psychoactive substances,” Those that flout this ban face prosecution and substantial penalties of up to $10,000 for an individual and $50,000 for a body corporate. “To those under 18 thinking of using these products, or those contemplating supplying them, take my advice, it’s just not worth it. The Act also puts an end to the cat and mouse situation that had developed with the temporary class drug regime, with drugs currently subject to temporary class drug notices made under the Misuse of Drugs Act continuing to be prohibited from sale. For those wanting further information about drugs:
http://www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz or Alcohol Drug Helpline 0800 787 797
