Minnesota Independent

Legislature poised to make salvia Minnesota’s next illegal drug

By Andy Birkey | 03.24.10 | 8:45 am

After several failed attempts in past sessions, the Minnesota Legislature appears poised to ban a little known but psychedelic plant called salvia divinorum. Bills that would penalize those who sell or possess the herb have moved through House and Senate committees and now await floor votes in both chambers. And while law enforcement officials push to expand the drug war, critics say this is an opportunity to enact sensible policies not create more criminals.

Legislators plan to add Salvia to the drug war

By Andy Birkey | 02.05.09 | 8:46 am

Minnesota lawmakers are looking to add another drug to the list of targets in the war on drugs. A bipartisan bill (HF 484) is up for consideration in the Minnesota House that would make Salvia divinorum, frequently just called Salvia, a Schedule I controlled substance in Minnesota, making sales and possession of the plant a crime. Ironically, the plant that would be labeled an illegal drug is showing promise in the medical community as a potential treatment for drug addiction.

Drug war enemy of the month: Bill targets salvia for prohibition

By Andy Birkey | 03.18.08 | 11:33 am

A relatively unheard of plant is being targeted by Minnesota lawmakers for prohibition because of its psychoactive properties. Possession of Salvia divinorum would become a crime if a bill by Rep. Joe Atkins,…