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Small businesses continue to sell synthetic cigarettes

By Staff Writer

Marijuana is a popular drug among adolescents, but the illicit substance is becoming difficult to obtain and use for recreational purposes as legislators create tougher penalties. Many kids are finding new, legal ways to get high through synthetic marijuana cigarettes, worrying parents and lawmakers alike.

Recently, the Drug Enforcement Administration called for a nationwide ban on ingredients found in synthetic cigarettes, according to WDIO-TV. However, the side effects of each product found in the drug have yet to be defined, making it harder for lawmakers to regulate the cigarettes. Minnesota Judicial District Drug Court coordinator Brian Lukasavitz told the news source that the long-term consequences of using the drug are still unclear.

Local authorities who have arrested individuals for abusing the drugs believe that seizures, paranoia and heart attacks can all be linked to smoking the synthetic cigarettes. However, businesses continue to sell legal product to drive revenue as it continues to grow in popularity.

Drug abuse costs the U.S. approximately $484 billion every year, according to the Department of Justice. Substance abuse programs for youth may be able to deter kids from using illicit substances and synthetic cigarettes in local communities.