Kersey considers pseudoephedrine law

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - A local Indiana state representative could take a Vigo County plan to the statehouse.

Vigo County Sheriff Jon Marvel wants a county ordinance requiring folks to get a prescription before buying any medications containing pseudoephedrine.

Marvel presented the idea last week at a commissioner attorney meeting. Marvel addressed the fact that Vigo County tops the state when it comes to manufacturing meth using over the counter drugs containing pseudoephedrine.

State Rep. Clyde Kersey said he could give his backing to a plan requiring prescriptions for products containing pseudoephedrine.
Marvel initiated the idea locally. Currently, the details are few but the concept is something one commissioner believes could be a solution.

"I think it is a very good idea. I think the other states that are doing it are saying so far it is successful. I am sure it hasn't been around that long so it will take some time to see how effective it is going to be," Vigo County Commissioner Mike Ciolli said.

If it passes in Vigo County, Kersey said he is interested in bringing legislation to the state house.

"We want to see how this flies in Vigo County, some of the pitfalls there before we go state wide," Kersey said.

Kersey said he expects opposition from big pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and the uninsured.

"I do see some problems with it. But I think down the road that may be the last resort to stopping the manufacturing of meth," Kersey said.

The Vigo County attorney has been gathering information from other states that have passed similar legislation to present before the commissioners by early next year.