States’ Attorney Generals Send Letter to Oil Companies Asking Them Not to Condone Synthetic Marijuana at Gas Stations
BP, Shell, Phillips 66, Chevron, Valero, Sunoco, Citgo, Exxon Mobil and Marathon each received a copy of the letter, which asked the oil companies to shut down the gas station franchises which sold synthetic marijuana, especially varieties like K2, Spice, Posh, and Blaze, which are not only popular “brands” of synthetic marijuana, but illegal according to the DEA.
“Given the significant danger synthetic drugs present to users, especially our young people, we are extremely troubled that these drugs have been readily available in well-known retail locations,” the letter states.
The letter noted that synthetic marijuana-related emergency room visits for children under the age of 17 has spiked in the last several years – in 2011, synthetic marijuana sent 11,000 kids and teens to the emergency room, while in 2012, the drug caused 28,000 to visit hospitals for help.
“When teens and young adults can find synthetic drugs for sale at gas stations operating under well-known brands, its gives these illegal products the false appearance of legitimacy when in fact they are very dangerous, potentially deadly drugs,” Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said. “Oil companies spend millions of dollars on marketing campaigns designed to convince customers their brands are trustworthy. Prohibiting the sale of synthetic drugs in their stores can only protect their brand reputations while also protecting our youth.”
“Each year, the legislature passes a bill that makes certain compounds felonies. The problem is, as soon as the bill’s passed, they immediately change the compositions further where it’s not technically a felony until the legislature next comes into session,” says Georgia’s Attorney General Sam Olens.
“Young people should not die or be seriously injured from using products bought at gas stations or convenience stores,” the attorneys wrote. “While we acknowledge that the sale of synthetic drugs at retail locations is only one aspect of an ongoing problem, we do know that it has greatly contributed to the growth of the problem.”
The letter requests the following assistance from major oil companies regarding their franchises:
- Prohibit franchises from selling synthetic marijuana
- Ensure prohibition is understood by the franchise owners and employees by communicating directly with them
- Establish a contact person at corporate offices in case franchise owners or employees have a question regarding a specific product
- Revoke the franchiser/franchisee relationship if the owner or employees refuse to stop selling synthetic marijuana
- Report any gas station franchise to local authorities if they refuse to stop selling synthetic marijuana at gas station
The Strom Law Firm Can Help Defend Against Drug Charges Involving Synthetic Marijuana
If you or a loved one have been found with synthetic marijuana, or other synthetic drugs, you could face criminal charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony, depending on how much of the drug was on your person, and what your intent was with the drug. The drug crimes attorneys at the Strom Law Firm can help. Do not let drug charges for synthetic marijuana hurt your reputation or your future aspirations. We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss the facts of your case. Contact us today for help. 803.252.4800