Delaware’s bath salts ban heads to Governor’s desk

A bill permanently banning bath salts in Delaware easily passed the House Thursday, and now awaits Gov. Jack Markell’s signature.

SB 160 makes the sale and possession of the designer drugs illegal and punishable by law. State lawmakers worked diligently to get the bill passed in both chambers, before a temporary ban expires at the end of the month.

Bath salts have been linked to several violent crimes, including the stabbing death of Lt. Joseph Szczerba last September, prompting the state to enact an emergency ban on the substances. Prior to that, bath salts could legally be purchased anywhere, including tobacco shops and gas station convenience stores.

Medical experts say bath salts can speed up your pulse, cause agitation, hallucinations, violent tendencies and suicidal thoughts.