Bill > S1243

This bill proposes to establish a comprehensive electronic tracking system for the sale of nonprescription medications containing pseudoephedrine (PSE) or ephedrine, which are commonly used in the illegal production of methamphetamine. The legislation sets strict limits on PSE purchases, capping sales at 3.6 grams per day and 9 grams per 30-day period, and requires retailers to maintain these products behind the counter or in locked cases. When selling PSE products, retailers must collect detailed customer information, including government-issued photo ID, and record the transaction in a logbook. Starting January 1, 2026, retailers must electronically submit purchase information to a real-time stop sale system administered by the state's public health department, which will prevent sales that would exceed legal limits. The system must be free for retailers to use and capable of generating stop sale alerts to prevent illegal purchases. Violations of these requirements are classified as misdemeanors with escalating fines ($1,000 for first offense, $5,000 for subsequent offenses), and retailers are generally protected from civil liability when following the law. The bill explicitly does not apply to purchases made with a valid prescription and preempts any local ordinances with conflicting regulations.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1243