John Shaw: “I rise in support today of Ms. Molinari's amendment affirming the opposition of this Congress to the pernicious drug…”

“I rise in support today of Ms. Molinari's amendment affirming the opposition of this Congress to the pernicious drug commonly known as roofies or the rape drug. In my district, Ft. Lauderdale, already more than 30 women have been raped after this drug was slipped into their drink. Ten times more powerful than Valium, this colorless, odorless, and tasteless depressant has the effect of rendering an unknowing victim susceptible to suggestion and thus vulnerable to sexual assault or rape. Because amnesia is one of roofies major side effects, victims may have the frightening experience of not being able to completely recall what happened to them. Roofies are illegally trafficked in from Mexico and Colombia and are quickly becoming a critical problem in the Southern States, from California all the way to Florida. Particularly in my own State of Florida, high school students not realizing the addictive nature and adverse side effects of the drug are buying the widely available roofies on the streets for as little as $2.50. Mr. Speaker, we must take a stand against the illegal importation of roofies. We must not continue to let our women and teenage children be so appallingly vulnerable to sexual assault. I urge you to please support Ms. Molinari's amendment.”