Councilman Tom Simplot's
North Central News Column
New Meth Ordinances Protect Phoenix Neighborhoods
The battle against crime comes in many forms. It comes from a stronger police presence and from active neighborhoods. It comes from educating youth about their options for success and programs that help people achieve success. It also comes from laws and regulations. Sometimes it takes greater scrutiny from law enforcement to help limit crime.
That is why I worked with my fellow councilmembers earlier this year, enacting new ordinances to curtail the production of crystal methamphetamine. Crystal meth is an extremely addictive drug — dangerous to those who use and produce it. The chemicals produced by cooking crystal meth are poisonous. Criminals making and using crystal meth are often our most violent. Meth labs put neighbors, children and our fire and police professionals at risk. The steps we have taken hopefully will help curtail the spread of this blight in our neighborhoods.
We are working to get the word out that, with the new ordinances in place, Phoenix will regulate some common allergy and cold medications starting Dec. 6. These drugs contain pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, key components for producing crystal meth. The new regulations will require retailers to remove all products containing those ingredients from open store shelves. Stores can still sell the products, but only at registers or behind pharmacy counters. If the products are displayed on regular shelves, stores may have to forfeit them to police. Retailers will then have to go through an administrative process to recover their merchandise.
Also, retailers must ask customers for photo identification and log personal information from any customers who purchase the products. The log books will be shared with police.
Though these new restrictions may be a minor inconvenience, I believe the gains we will see are worth it. As many of you know, crystal meth has become one of the most prevalent and dangerous drugs. It is relatively easy for criminals to make the drug at home, from readily available materials. The substance can be “cooked” anywhere. If we are going to see a decline in crystal meth labs in our neighborhoods, we must cut the supply of chemicals needed to produce the drug. Since methamphetamine can only be produced using pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, regulating those substances was the logical choice for greater restrictions.
Other cities and states have enacted similar laws and ordinances and have seen drastic decreases in crystal meth production. Phoenix has been working with other municipalities to develop similar ordinances throughout the Valley. We are hoping for a state law. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods and families safer.
Thank you for your support and understanding on this critical issue. If you have any questions, please feel free to visit phoenix.gov/meth or contact my office anytime.
Councilman Tom Simplot represents District 4, which includes parts of north central Phoenix. If you have questions, comments or suggestions on this or any other issue, please contact his office at 602-262-7447 or e-mail council.district.4@phoenix.gov .
