'BATH SALTS' DRUG BAN

The New Jersey Senate has passed a bill outlawing synthetic drugs
known as "bath salts."

The Senate bill makes it a crime to possess or sell the chemicals used
to make the drugs.

Marketed as bath salts or incense, they're snorted by users and mimic
the effects of cocaine and methamphetamines.

They can cause health issues ranging from increased blood pressure and
heart rate to hallucinations and suicidal thoughts.

The bill must also pass the Assembly and be signed by Gov. Chris
Christie before becoming law.

In April, New Jersey's attorney general classified the chemicals used
to make the drug as controlled dangerous substances.

A law passed by the Kansas Legislature to ban bath salts took effect
on Saturday.