Governor Shapiro signs xylazine legislation

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania has enacted legislation to regulate access to xylazine, a potent cattle tranquilizer commonly misused in illegal drugs. Governor Josh Shapiro signed the law on May 15, classifying xylazine as a Schedule III drug in the state. This move aims to curb its illicit use while ensuring its availability for veterinary purposes.

Xylazine, known as "tranq" on the street, is increasingly being mixed with opioids to prolong their effects illegally. However, it remains an essential sedative for veterinarians during procedures on large animals, particularly cattle.

Dr. William Croushore from the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association highlighted concerns regarding both animal welfare and public safety if xylazine were to become unavailable. The new law requires manufacturers and distributors to verify practitioners' licenses before providing the drug, deterring misuse.

Importantly, the legislation exempts reputable animal pharmaceutical companies and veterinarians from stringent regulations, ensuring continued access without prohibitive costs. While illicit xylazine likely originates from black-market imports, veterinarians will now be required to ensure safe storage of the substance, akin to their handling of other controlled substances.

Xylazine-related overdose deaths have surged in Pennsylvania, prompting the Department of Health to designate it as a temporary Schedule III drug last year. The legislation solidifies this designation, emphasizing the dangers of its misuse, including severe health complications like weeping skin ulcers and infections.

The bipartisan legislation received widespread support in the Legislature, with the cooperation of the Shapiro administration and Representative Carl Metzgar. Working alongside the veterinary association, exemptions were established to safeguard veterinary usage while addressing public health concerns associated with xylazine misuse.

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