MOSCOW, November 10 (RAPSI) - A bill proposing that production, transportation and sale of counterfeit medicines be singled out as a separate crime with a tougher punishment has been filed to State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament, RIA Novosti reports on Monday.

Production of counterfeit medicines is currently treated as a felony under the operations with “goods not complying with safety requirements.” The offense is punishable by up to 300,000 rubles ($6,600) or up to two years in prison;  in case of severe health consequences or death, a fine of up to 500,000 rubles ($11,000) and a six-year prison term; and a 10-year prison term in case of multiple deaths. Fraudulent-drug producers often get away with a 100,000 ruble fine ($2,200), according to the Federation Council.

Senators now suggest that counterfeit medication trafficking be categorized as a separate crime. If approved, the offense would be punishable by restricted freedom or a prison term of between two and four years. In case of death or serious bodily harm, the punishment would be four to six years in prison and a 500,000 ruble fine. If the drug caused the death of several people, its production, storage, trafficking and sale would be punishable by seven to 10 years in prison and a fine of between 500,000 and 1 million rubles.