HEARINGS SET FOR LIMITATIONS ON SALE OF COLD MEDICINE

TOPEKA - Restrictions on the sale of the cold and allergy medicine
commonly known as Sudafed will be the subject of a hearing Wednesday
before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are key ingredients in making the
illegal drug methamphetamine. If the law passes, buyers of cold
medications containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine would be limited
to a one-month supply, and required to show photo identification and
sign for receipt of the medicine.

Oklahoma passed a similar law last year, which authorities there say
has resulted in a sharp drop in meth labs. Kansas law enforcement
officers say they have seen an increase in the number of Oklahomans
attempting to buy or steal large quantities of cold medication here.

The hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. in Room 123-S at the Capitol.
The bill is SB 27 and can be read online at www.kslegislature.org.