A new law passed in New Zealand two weeks ago has the world’s attention because it attempts to regulate designer drugs such as “bath salts.”
The law will allow businesses to sell these drugs if they can pass the same kind of testing required for medication. The law would also require warning labels.
"While other countries are still blindly banning drug after drug, the Psychoactive Substances Bill will put New Zealand ahead of the industry's game," executive director Ross Bell told CNN . "It is a comprehensive, pragmatic and innovative approach to address a complex problem."
The law passed in a 119 to 1 vote.
"The Hungarians, the Irish, the British, they're all keen to know what we are up to," Peter Dunne, the bill’s sponsor, told the Associated Press . "It's seen as cutting edge. They want to see how it works, and view it for their own country."
The Drug Policy Alliance, based in New York, wants Congress to pass similar legislation.
Designer drugs mimic the high of methamphetamines. These drugs also have dangerous side effects that, in worst case scenarios, could cause death.
"The basic prohibitionist approach doesn't seem to be working," Ethan Nadelmann told The Associated Press . "Either a drug is criminalized, and underground chemists produce a new compound, or it's not criminal because it's never been created before."
The new law restricts the sale of designer drugs to those 18 years or older. The drugs will not be sold in grocery stores, gas stations, or convenience stores.