§ 208-1. Purpose and intent.

It has been determined that certain businesses and/or individuals within the Town of Barnstable are possessing and selling certain substances which when ingested produce intoxicating effects similar to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or marijuana. These substances, which are described herein, are often used as an alternative synthetic to marijuana and are potentially dangerous to users and society, and the long-term effects are not yet known. The effects of these substances are a health concern to the citizens of Barnstable. Not all of the substances are categorized as illegal controlled substances under state or federal law. By selling these legal substances for smoking and ingestion in the guise of incense, the manufacturers avoid the United States Food and Drug Administration process for study and approval of such prior to distribution for consumption. In addition, by marketing such incense products directed at the controlled drug subculture, the manufacturers and sellers avoid the schedule implications of the Controlled Substances Act. The Town of Barnstable Town Council recognizes there is no legitimate purpose for such synthetic chemicals contained therein.