A new Tennessee bill could make it easier to buy Sudafed again

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Spring flowers may be beautiful, but they come at a cost for all of us with allergies and sinus issues. Over the years, we’ve become accustomed to having some extra hurdles when purchasing cold and allergy medicine. But now that may be changing.

Several years ago, the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law that severely limited the amount of Sudafed and other nasal decongestants. That’s because pseudophedrine is an important ingredient in making stimulants.

“It’s very effective, but it can be a little headachey at times. I’m not kidding,” said Sen. John Stevens (R-Huntington).

Senator Stevens wants to nearly double the amount of pseudophendrine available for purchase in a year.

“This bill would increase the amount that can be purchased in a year from 28.8 grams to 48.2 grams, which is effectively six months’ worth of supply,” he said.

Tennessee isn’t free from its methamphetamine addiction problem. It’s still a very big problem. However, meth production has changed dramatically.

“Meth labs are down dramatically, and that’s because they’re coming across the border from Mexico,” said Sen. Kelly Roberts, R-Springfield.

“They’ve flooded our market with cheap meth, so it’s more expensive to make. That’s why people don’t do it. They can buy it on the street,” said Sen. Stevens. .

Now that Sudafed is no longer a real issue, lawmakers don’t want to get in the way of the people who actually need it.

“We don’t want to penalize Tennesseans with colds and allergies by preventing them from purchasing more of this highly effective, safe and legal over-the-counter medication,” Stevens said.

The bill passed unanimously in the Senate Judiciary Committee and will soon be sent to the Senate floor.

The bill will need several more debates before reaching the House floor.