(TAYLORVILLE) Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed legislation banning the sale of synthetic drugs known as “bath salts” in Illinois stores.

Rauner traveled Monday to Taylorville, about 25 miles southeast of Springfield, to sign the bill aimed at curbing what he called an “epidemic” afflicting rural communities. Every state already bans the chemicals, which mimic the effects of powerful drugs like cocaine. But the Illinois legislation makes it possible for retailers to be prosecuted.

The law taking effect Jan. 1 makes selling bath salts a felony punishable with a fine of up to $150,000.

Rauner signed the bill on the same day the Republican National Convention began in Cleveland. Rauner said last week he is not attending the convention because he is traveling the state signing bills that lawmakers passed this year.

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