CHPA stands with Indiana officials on the state’s new voluntary retail Anti-Smurfing Campaign

WASHINGTON — The Consumer Healthcare Products Association on Tuesday joined Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller, state Rep. Larry Bucshon, as well as local officials and leaders from the Indiana Pharmacists Alliance, the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council, the Indiana Retail Council and the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, at a press conference to launch the state’s new voluntary retail Anti-Smurfing Campaign. The initiative, which was developed by CHPA, aims to educate potential pseudoephedrine “smurfers” on the consequences of making an illegal purchase. 

"“There is no question that smurfing is a challenge for the law enforcement community and we hope that this program will help address this illegal behavior," stated Scott Melville, CHPA president and CEO. "In addition to electronic blocking technology and other legislative tools, we are pleased to see Indiana leaders taking concrete steps to educate the public about this type of criminal activity.”

The Anti-Smurfing Campaign is a public-private partnership that provides Indiana pharmacies signage to display at the retail counter. CHPA tested a range of anti-smurfing messages, and the research affirmed that these materials successfully educate potential smurfers about the consequence of illegal purchases without deterring honest consumers.

The Attorney General’s office, the Indiana Pharmacists Alliance, the Indiana Retail Council, and the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council are co-sponsoring the campaign along with CHPA.

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