The state Senate has passed a bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, that would make possession or sale of synthetic marijuana or “bath salts” illegal.

Sen. Griffo, R-Rome, represents St. Lawrence County towns Massena, Brasher, Potsdam, Pierrepont, Norfolk, Stockholm, Russell, Clifton, Fine and Pitcairn.

“In 2011, we took a strong role to address the issue of these hallucinogenic drugs being sold in New York, and we passed a strong measure that Gov. Cuomo signed into law," said Griffo.

"However, law enforcement and health officials noted that there were some loopholes that could still lead to the distribution of the illegal substances into New York. I believe this new measure to close that technicality is a strong response to protect families and our law enforcement personnel,” he said.

Synthetic marijuana consists of herbs sprayed with chemicals called “synthetic cannabinoids.” These products, which include “Spice,” “K2,” “Cloud 9” and “Black 9,” have dangerous side effects including rapid heart rate, tremors, loss of consciousness and hallucinations.

“Bath salts” or “substituted cathinones” are chemically related to methamphetamines and ecstasy and cause harmful physical and psychological reactions.

A law banning the sale of bath salts was enacted in 2011, and the state Department of Health has banned the sale and distribution of synthetic marijuana. However, possession of these substances, which may still be purchased outside the state or via the internet, continues to be legal.

Penalties for the sale or possession of synthetic marijuana would be similar to those for possession or sale of marijuana, while the penalties regarding bath salts would be similar to those for methamphetamines.

For instance, sale to a minor, or sales on or near school grounds, would constitute a class B felony punishable by up to 25 years imprisonment.

The legislation would also establish a statewide “Synthetic Cannabinoid and Substituted Cathinone Surrender Program.”

For 90 days after the law takes effect, the program would allow individuals to voluntarily turn over any products containing synthetic cannabinoids and substituted cathinones at designated locations.

A state database would also be created on the state Department of Health’s website to provide a listing of trade names, physical descriptions, brand names and images of the various products known to be either synthetic marijuana or bath salts.

The bill can be viewed at open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S1686-2013.