HOUSE TARGETS DATE-RAPE DRUG

LANSING, MICHIGAN -- The death of a teenager who ingested a drink laced with
GHB has prompted the state House to pass new penalties for possessing or
manufacturing a similar drug.

The legislation establishes penalties for possession and manufacturing of
gamma-butrylactone, or GBL, a chemical relative of GHB. It was unanimously
approved Tuesday by the House.

GBL and GHB are used at parties to get high, as a supplement by body
builders and to incapacitate victims in sexual assaults.

"This legislation is to punish those who think they can get away with rape
by drugging their victims," said state Rep. Jennifer Faunce (R-Warren), the
bill's sponsor.

"Criminals are using GBL to avoid the penalties that already exist for
possession and use of a similar drug, GHB."

Samantha Reid of Rockwood slipped into a coma and died last year after
ingesting GHB slipped into her soft drink during a Detroit-area party with
four men.