Synthetic drug ban, human trafficking bills move out of committee

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Senate bills stiffening the state’s synthetic drug ban and strengthening Indiana’s human trafficking laws were approved unanimously by the House of Representatives Committee on Courts and Criminal Code Wednesday.

Senate Bill 536, approved 11-0, would make it illegal to possess or deal “look-alike” synthetic drugs. State law currently only prohibits substances identified as synthetic drugs based on their chemical makeup. The law also would alter the definition of “intoxication” to include impairment by any substance, excluding food and food ingredients, tobacco or a dietary supplement.

The bill is supported by the Indiana State Police.

SB 509, approved 12-0, would expand the state’s human trafficking statute to make it illegal to arrange for someone under the age of 18 to participate in any sexual act or forced labor. The current law only affords this protection to children 16 years old or younger.

Both bills move on to the full House for further consideration.

 

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