House bill makes more synthetic drugs illegal

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - The House has passed a bill to make new versions of synthetic marijuana illegal.

The bill classifies additional synthetic substances also known as "K2," to the list of illegal drugs.

Last year the Legislature passed a law making several chemicals used to make K2 and "bath salts" illegal but manufacturers keep altering the composition with different chemicals to stay ahead of state bans.

Rep. Joel Fry says hospitals reported 29 emergency room cases involving synthetic drugs last year. Several incidents involving Des Moines high school students have been reported the past few weeks.

In December state officials issued a safety alert about synthetic drugs that mimic pot, cocaine and other illegal drugs urging parents to talk with their children about the dangers of using so-called "incense" or "potpourri."