Bill > S1617

This bill aims to prohibit the sale of dextromethorphan (DXM), a common cough suppressant found in over-the-counter medications, to individuals under 18 years old. Specifically, the legislation makes it unlawful for retailers to sell any nonprescription product containing DXM to minors and equally prohibits minors from purchasing or attempting to purchase such products. To verify age, sellers must either check photo identification or be reasonably certain the purchaser is at least 27 years old, with valid ID including driver's licenses, state identification cards, military IDs, or passports. The bill establishes a graduated penalty system for violations: the first offense results in a warning letter from the state Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality, the second offense can incur a civil penalty up to $150, and subsequent offenses can result in fines up to $250. Additionally, minors who attempt to purchase DXM may be subject to a $50 civil fine. The law does not apply to DXM products dispensed via prescription and preempts any local ordinances that might regulate DXM sales, ensuring a uniform statewide standard. The primary goal is to prevent potential abuse of DXM, which can be used as a recreational drug when consumed in large quantities.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1617