Oregon to Require ID for Cold Medications

Cold sufferers in Oregon will not be able to buy over-the-counter medicines for their symptoms without first showing some identification and leaving their personal information at the check-out counter, under an emergency order issued by Gov. Ted Kulongoski aimed at making in more difficult for methamphetamine manufacturers.

Many cold remedies available over the counter contain ingredients needed to manufacture meth. The emergency order issued by Gov. Kulongoski will take effect Oct. 13 and last for 180 days. The Governor hopes the Oregon legislature will make the measure permanent.

"Meth labs exist in Oregon homes, hotels, motels, apartments and even in automobiles," Gov. Kulongoski said. "They're just as likely to be found in rural communities as they are in big cities. Vendors will be required to keep a record of every purchase," Kulongoski said. Officials will be on the watch for people making multiple purchases in a short time."

Kulongoski said meth is the No. 1 reason children are removed from Oregon homes and placed in foster care and accounts for 85 percent of the state's property and identity theft crimes.

See The Daily News: Cold Sufferers Need ID to Get Meds