HB 14-1037 Summary

• Prohibits distribution, sale, display, or manufacture of any product containing synthetic cannabinoids, classifying violations as deceptive trade practices.

• Establishes civil penalties of $10,000-$500,000 per violation for synthetic cannabinoid offenses, or $25,000-$500,000 per violation when sold to minors under 18.

• Amends existing cathinone ("bath salt") laws to expand prohibited conduct to include displaying for sale and attempting to sell, with matching penalty ranges.

• Requires the Colorado Bureau of Investigation to purchase and maintain materials and equipment for law enforcement agencies to presumptively identify synthetic cannabinoids and designer drugs by September 1, 2014.

• Appropriates $339,602 and 0.6 FTE to the Department of Public Safety for fiscal year 2014-2015 for laboratory services, investigative support, and equipment training related to designer drug enforcement.