Council bans synthetic marijuana

The Boston City Council voted on Wednesday to ban the sale of designer drugs known as “synthetic marijuana.” Under the measure sponsored by City Councilor Frank Baker, sellers and buyers can be fined $300 per violation. Any law enforcement official can seize the drug. The popular drug, also known as K2, spice, crazy monkey, and Scooby snacks has become a growing concern in the city, according to police, public health officials, and social workers. It causes users to hallucinate, vomit, become agitated, experience psychotic episodes, and in some cases results in death. The substance does not actually contain marijuana but is made of a variety of plants sprayed with chemicals, according to Boston police and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is often marketed as incense or potpourri and sold at gas stations, smoke shops, and mom-and-pop stores.