The Senate has unanimously approved legislation outlawing herbal incense that simulates the effects of marijuana. The Senate voted 50-0 on Thursday to ban the synthetic compounds sold in gas stations, convenience stores and head shops under names including “Spice” and “K2.” The products mix herbs and spices that are then sprayed with a chemical compound similar to the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. It is smoked from pipes or after rolling it in paper. The packets of synthetic marijuana sold in stores are usually less than half an ounce, and possession of that amount wouldn’t be punished. Possession of more than a half-ounce would become a misdemeanor. The measure now goes to the House.(THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, 2/10/11).
