No Salvia for Those Under 21

The Maryland Senate unanimously approved a ban on the distribution of salvia divinorum to people under 21 years of age. People under 21 also would be prohibited from possessing the hallucinogenic herb. Violators would be charged with a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of up to $300 on their first offense under the legislation. Subsequent offenses within two years could bring fines of up to $1,000 for a second offense or as much as $3,000 for additional convictions. Last summer, Ocean City officials banned the sale or possession of salvia, which many Boardwalk shops were selling. Salvia is listed as a controlled substance in 13 states, according to legislative documents. The bill moves to the House, which approved similar legislation.