LANSING—Anhydrous ammonia, a common fertilizer and a key ingredient in making the street drug methamphetamine, is now protected by a law sponsored by Sen. Valde Garcia, R-Howell. The Anhydrous Ammonia Security Act will make it harder for individuals to steal anhydrous ammonia, protecting both farmers and individuals who should not have access to the dangerous gas. “Anhydrous ammonia is an important component of many successful farms across the state,” said Garcia, R-Howell. “But this chemical certainly should be protected from getting in the wrong hands. This law makes the storage of anhydrous ammonia much safer and more secure.” Instrumental to the agriculture community, anhydrous ammonia is a low-cost, effective nitrogen-based fertilizer that provides nutrients to 600,000 acres of Michigan crops each year. But improper contact or inhalation can cause serious injury, including chemical burns to the body and lungs. The law creates safety and security practices for storing the substance, which will reduce the possibility of the chemical being stolen from its storage tanks or from being handled improperly. Under the measure, the Michigan Commission of Agriculture will establish standards for safe anhydrous ammonia storage. These standards include:Anhydrous ammonia must be stored in a tank that is properly equipped with a functioning tank or valve lock.Anhydrous ammonia must contain a dye when it is stored, making the gas visible in the air and when it touches the skin.