MOSCOW, July 3 (RAPSI) - The State Duma on Tuesday has adopted a bill in the first reading introducing administrative liability for drug users who shirk treatment and medical and social rehabilitation.

The bill stipulates a fine of up to 5,000 rubles ($150).

The former Russian legislation did not include several important practical notions such as "the treatment of patients with drug dependence," "the medical and social rehabilitation of patients with drug dependence," "preventive procedures," or "encouraging patients with drug dependence to undergo treatment and medical and social rehabilitation." The lack of these concepts hampered law enforcement. The new bill adds these terms to the law On Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances.

According to the bill, a court order to undergo treatment and medical and social rehabilitation will serve as an effective way to motivate drug users.

"We propose introducing administrative liability for shirking treatment and medical and social rehabilitation for drug dependence, or a preventive treatment course, in the form of a fine ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 rubles, or administrative detention for up to 15 days," the document reads.