Synthetic marijuana now banned in Boston
Synthetic marijuana is sold around Boston in gas stations and smoke shops, wrapped in plastic packets covered with cartoons and labeled as incense. It usually goes by “K2’’ or “Spice,’’ and taking it can cause anxiety, high blood pressure, nausea, seizures, hallucinations, and even suicidal thoughts or behavior.
As of Friday, it’s banned in the city.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh signed an ordinance that outlaws the possession, sale, manufacturing, and distribution of synthetic marijuana, according to a press release from his office. The designer drug doesn’t actually contain marijuana, but instead comes from plants sprayed with chemicals.
“I thank the City Council for working on this important measure to better protect our residents from these extremely dangerous substances that are becoming increasingly accessible and more targeted towards our young people,’’ Walsh said in the release.
The ordinance came from the office of City Councilor Frank Baker, who said he hopes the law will play a role in ceasing the sale of other synthetic chemical compounds in the future, according to the release.
Under the new law, Boston police will have authority to enforce a $300 fine for each violation.
Related gallery: State-by-state guide to marijuana legislation
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