Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act
Summary
The "Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act" aims to combat the illegal manufacturing of controlled substances by amending the Controlled Substances Act. It mandates that regulated persons identify tableting and encapsulating machines, as well as their critical parts, with serial numbers. This will enable better tracking and regulation of these machines.
The bill defines key terms like 'critical part,' 'die,' 'lower punch,' 'punch,' and 'upper punch' to clarify the scope of the regulation. It also outlines specific requirements for record-keeping and reporting to the Attorney General.
Furthermore, the act prohibits the removal, alteration, or obliteration of serial numbers on these machines and their critical parts, enhancing law enforcement's ability to trace and prevent illicit drug production.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this act will be to increase the accountability of individuals and businesses involved in the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of tableting and encapsulating machines. This will make it more difficult for criminals to acquire and use these machines for illegal purposes.
Law enforcement will have an easier time tracking the origin and movement of these machines, potentially leading to more arrests and convictions related to drug manufacturing. The act could also deter individuals from engaging in illicit activities due to the increased risk of detection.
Finally, legitimate businesses using these machines will need to comply with the new regulations, which may involve some initial costs for marking and tracking equipment.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced ability for law enforcement to track and prevent the illegal manufacturing of controlled substances.
- Increased accountability for individuals and businesses involved in the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of tableting and encapsulating machines.
- Potential reduction in the availability of illicit drugs.
- Deters criminal activity related to drug manufacturing.
- Provides clear definitions and regulations for regulated persons and critical parts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased compliance costs for legitimate businesses that use tableting and encapsulating machines.
- Potential for delays in the manufacturing and distribution of these machines due to the new regulations.
- May not completely eliminate illicit drug manufacturing, as criminals may find alternative methods.
- Requires the Attorney General to create regulations, which could be subject to legal challenges or delays.
- Could potentially impact international trade of these machines if regulations are not aligned with international standards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating the interstate and international trade of tableting and encapsulating machines, which are used in the production of controlled substances. It also aligns with the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18), as it enacts measures deemed necessary to enforce existing drug laws.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The regulations primarily target those involved in the manufacturing and distribution of controlled substances, rather than infringing on the rights of ordinary citizens.
However, the implementation of the regulations should be carefully monitored to ensure they do not unduly burden legitimate businesses or infringe on privacy rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).