Combating Illicit Xylazine Act
3/7/2024, 8:15 AMSummary of Bill HR 1839
Bill 118 hr 1839, also known as the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at addressing the growing issue of illicit xylazine use. Xylazine is a veterinary sedative that has been increasingly used in combination with other drugs, such as opioids, to create a dangerous and potent mixture.The bill seeks to combat the illicit use of xylazine by increasing penalties for those who possess, distribute, or manufacture the drug without a valid prescription. It also aims to improve coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to better track and prosecute those involved in the illegal distribution of xylazine.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for increased education and training for law enforcement officers on the dangers of xylazine and how to identify and respond to cases involving the drug. It also calls for increased resources for drug treatment and prevention programs to help address the underlying issues driving the illicit use of xylazine. Overall, the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to address the growing problem of xylazine abuse and its impact on communities across the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 1839
Combating Illicit Xylazine Act
This bill criminalizes the illicit use of xylazine. (Xylazine, also known as Tranq, is a sedative that is approved for use in animals. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has reported an increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with xylazine.)
Specifically, the bill establishes criminal penalties for manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing, or possessing with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, xylazine for illicit use (i.e., for use in humans) in accordance with the penalties for schedule III substances (up to 10 years imprisonment or, if death or serious bodily injury occurs, up to 15 years imprisonment, as well as criminal fines).
In addition, the DEA must coordinate with the Food and Drug Administration to report on the prevalence of the illicit use of xylazine, including associated supply chains. The bill also declares the illicit use of xylazine as an emerging drug threat.
