H.R. 7184: Preventing Rogue Equipment for Synthetic Substances Act

This bill, known as the Preventing Rogue Equipment for Synthetic Substances Act (PRESS Act), aims to strengthen the laws regarding the manufacture and distribution of equipment that can be used to produce illegal drugs. It focuses particularly on machines and materials that are used for creating tablets and capsules that may contain controlled substances.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• New Legal Restrictions: The bill makes it illegal to manufacture or distribute specific equipment—such as tableting machines, encapsulating machines, and the associated tools and materials—if the manufacturer or distributor knows or has reason to believe that this equipment will be used to produce illegal drugs or that these drugs will be brought into the United States unlawfully.
• Expanded Jurisdiction: The bill expands extraterritorial jurisdiction under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that the United States can hold individuals accountable for these activities, even if they occur outside of U.S. borders.
• Penalties for Violation: The bill introduces stricter penalties for those who violate these new provisions. Offenders could face significant fines and imprisonment, with specific terms outlined depending on the nature of the offense. For example, violations involving certain chemicals or large quantities of machines can result in longer prison sentences.
• Sentencing Commission Review: The United States Sentencing Commission is tasked with reviewing and potentially revising federal sentencing guidelines to align with the new regulations established by the bill.

Rationale

The intent behind the legislation is to address the growing problem of synthetic drug production and distribution, particularly concerning substances that can be counterfeited or manufactured illegally. By targeting the tools that facilitate this illegal activity, the bill seeks to reduce the availability of synthetic drugs on the market.

Relevant Companies

• MMM - 3M Company may be indirectly impacted due to their production of materials that can be used in various manufacturing processes, including pharmaceuticals.
• MCK - McKesson Corporation, involved in pharmaceutical distribution, could see operational changes depending on regulatory compliance with the new import restrictions.
• HSIC - Henry Schein, Inc. might be affected due to their role in distributing medical and dental equipment, which could include tableting machinery.