Senate bill would make xylazine a federally controlled substance

What does this do?

S 545 would add xylazine, an animal sedative increasingly mixed into illegal drugs like fentanyl, to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act, the same category as anabolic steroids and some prescription medications. Legitimate veterinary use, pharmacy dispensing, and legal use in wildlife and government animal control programs would remain permitted. Manufacturers would have up to one year to meet new labeling and packaging requirements and 60 days to register under the new rules.

Who does it affect?

The bill primarily affects veterinarians, pharmacies, and drug manufacturers who use or produce xylazine legally. It also affects law enforcement and people involved in the illegal drug supply chain.

Why does it matter?

Placing xylazine on Schedule III would impose federal rules on how it is tracked, stored, and distributed, and could alter criminal exposure for those trafficking it illegally. The DEA and FDA would be required to report to Congress within 18 months on how xylazine is being diverted and where it originates, with a follow-up report due in four years.

Where does it stand?