Emerson introduces bill to outlaw 'bath salt' drugs

U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson has introduced legislation to add 15 cathinone stimulant drugs, commonly known as "bath salts," to the list of substances subject to seizure and prosecution by law enforcement.

Emerson said in a news release the "bath salt" drugs consist of dangerous chemicals that can easily be changed to evade the authorities.

In some retail establishments these drugs are available over-the-counter. They are also available from drug dealers and criminal networks, the news release said. Federal and local efforts to target these drugs last week resulted in arrests and seizures in 31 states.