"An Act relating to scheduling Salvia divinorum as a controlled substance. "

Salvia Divinorum is very powerful a hallucinogenic substance primarily grown in the mountainous regions of Mexico. It has a history of use as a vision inducing substance by the Mazatec Indians of the region. Because it is so easy to misuse and can produce long-lasting psychological effects, it is banned in several countries and now several states.

The leaves of this perennial herb, once processed can be eaten, drunk as a tea, or inhaled. Salvia is presently available to persons in Alaska who choose to order it over the Internet. Although purchasers of this substance are asked to certify they are over the age of 18, we know such restrictions are loosely applied. Sellers and their web sites promise mind-altering experiences, but experts warn that depression and schizophrenia are very real risks with this drug. (www.intheknowzone.com)

As with all items that enter the pop drug culture, Salvia Divinorum is enjoying a rise in use due to the lack of restrictions. We have an opportunity to get ahead of this powerful substance and reduce the risk to our young people by following the lead of other states and countries in declaring Salvia a dangerous substance and adding it to our Schedule II list of illegal drugs. Such action would place it in the same category as mescaline and Peyote.

I urge your support for this important action.

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