ASSEMBLY BILL INTRODUCED TO BAN `DATE RAPE' DRUG

Assemblyman Mike Honda, D- San Jose, has introduced a bill that would
ban the sale of an over-the-counter drug known as a ``date rape'' drug.

Honda is seeking to ban the drug gamma-hydroxybutyrate, or GHB, which
is sold under the brand name ``Blue Nitro.'' It is marketed as a
dietary supplement that can enhance sex, burn fat and reduce stress.

``Blue Nitro is a deadly health hazard and must be banned. Date rape
drugs have no place in California, and Blue Nitro has no place being
marketed as a dietary supplement,'' Honda said.

Date-rape drugs, such as GHB and rohypnol, are showing up in Santa
Clara County at raves and dance clubs. They severely impair the
judgment of users and have been used to facilitate sexual assaults.

The Assembly Public Safety Committee, which Honda chairs, will hold
hearings on the bill on April 6 in Sacramento. If passed by the
legislature, AB924 would become law immediately upon signature of the
governor.