"An Act relating to scheduling as a Schedule IA controlled substance gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and certain similar substances. "

Taken first by bodybuilders in the 1980's when steroids were initially controlled, GHB was believed to enhance steroid production. A small amount of GHB, when ingested elicits feelings similar to intense intoxication and gained popularity initially as a way to get drunk without the calories.

Since it is easily added to a drink, difficult to detect, leaves the system quickly and is very difficult for law enforcement to identify, GHB has become a popular "date rape" drug. In February of 2000, GHB was elevated at the Federal Level to a schedule 1 narcotic. Like other drugs, GHB and its variations are sadly found in Alaska.

Late last year, three young men were charged in federal court in the death of a 16-year-old Chugiak High School Student. The young men were charged in Federal Court because the variation of GHB they were allegedly providing isn't covered in Alaska's controlled substances statutes.

House Bill 379 adds these variations of GHB to Alaska's controlled substances act and raises them, along with GHB to a schedule 1A narcotic. Since this narcotic is addictive, dangerous, and popular as a "date rape" drug it deserves the harshest designation possible under state law.

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