Editorial: Congress taking on meth labs

Monday, Nov. 28, 2005 | 9:17 a.m.

After barring over-the-counter sales of cold and allergy medicines, Oklahoma experienced an 80 percent drop in makeshift methamphetamine labs, according to a report by Hearst Newspapers. This is because the legal medicines contain pseudoephedrine, a key active ingredient in meth, also known as speed, crank and chalk.

Following through on the success of Oklahoma's experience, Congress is set to pass a similar law as early as next month.

It would require consumers to show identification to a pharmacist and sign paperwork before being allowed to buy a controlled amount of any medicine containing pseudoephedrine.

Many retail outlets are already imposing safeguards to prevent shoplifting of their cold and allergy medicines. The congressional bill, however, would create a national standard.

Normally we would rather such a law be left up to states. But meth is a national issue. It can ruin the health of users and even cause death. It puts a strain on public health and environmental services -- dealers are known for dumping leftover ingredients, including antifreeze, battery acid, lye and drain cleaner, down toilets or into creek beds. Meth is often made in homes or garages, using explosive chemicals that endanger innocent neighbors. It can lead addicts into committing crimes.

We support the action by Congress.