It is known as "K-2" or "Spice." It's a synthetic substance that can be found in convenience type stores in Western New York and across the land.
U.S Senator Charles Schumer was in Buffalo Monday to say that he and other members of Congress on both sides of the aisle want to see it banned.
With the Erie County Courthouse as a backdrop, Senator Schumer, joined by Erie County Sheriff Timothy Howard and Erie County District Attorney Frank Sedita, said the substance, which sells for about $20 a packet is really synthetic marijuana.
"How is it possible that such a danger drug can so openly be sold on a convenience store shelves? Because by marketing it as K-2 or spice, synthetic marijuana is not regulated," said Schumer
It comes from China, maybe Korea. It's dangerous.
"Producers are trying to actual mask what’s inside,” said Senator Schumer. "Often more dangerous than regular marijuana."
It is not meant to be smelled, rather, Schumer said, this substance, known on the street as "K-2", "Spice" or "Defiant" is meant to be smoked.
Senator Schumer is sponsor of a bill that, if approved, would remove synthetic marijuana from store shelves. It has bi-partisan support. A similiar measure has cleared the house.
"I’m announcing an effort to make it illegal in the United States and get them off the shelves in Buffalo and Western New York, and all the stories in America," said Schumer.