Controlled substances: synthetic cannabinoids: analogs.

Existing law makes it a misdemeanor to sell, dispense, distribute, furnish, administer, or give, or offer to sell, dispense, distribute, furnish, administer, or give, or possess for sale, any synthetic cannabinoid compound or any synthetic cannabinoid derivative and makes it an infraction to use or possess those drugs. Existing law provides that a controlled substance analog, which includes a substance the chemical structure of which is substantially similar to the chemical structure of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance, is treated the same as the Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance of which it is an analog for the purposes of specified provisions of law. This bill would expand the definition of a controlled substance analog to include a substance the chemical structure of which is substantially similar to the chemical structure of a synthetic cannabinoid compound and would require the controlled substance analogs of synthetic cannabinoid compounds to be treated the same as the synthetic cannabinoid compound of which it is an analog for the purpose of the provisions criminalizing synthetic cannabinoid compounds. By expanding the scope of a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.