S. 545 · On the floor · Crime and Law Enforcement

Combating Illicit Xylazine Act

What it does

Adds xylazine, including its salts, isomers, and salts of isomers, to schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act.
Subjects manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, or possessing xylazine with intent to do so for illicit use to CSA criminal penalties.
Requires xylazine transactions to be tracked in the DEA's drug reporting system.
Exempts from CSA registration those holding xylazine lawfully dispensed by a veterinarian or pharmacy for an animal or certain animal-control or wildlife programs, and exempts makers from physical security rules.
Requires the DEA, with HHS, to report to Congress.

Official summary

Combating Illicit Xylazine Act This bill regulates xylazine under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Xylazine, also known as tranq , is a nonopioid sedative and pain reliever that is approved for use in animals. Recently, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has reported an increase in trafficking of fentanyl mixed with xylazine. This bill adds xylazine, including its salts, isomers, and salts of isomers, to schedule III of the CSA. Schedule III controlled substances, including anabolic steroids, buprenorphine, and ketamine, have less potential for abuse than a schedule I or II substance, have a currently accepted medical use, and have low or moderate risk of dependence if abused. Under the bill, manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing xylazine, or possessing with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense xylazine for illicit use is subject to criminal penalties under the CSA. The bill also requires xylazine transactions to be tracked in the drug reporting system maintained by the DEA. The bill exempts from registration under the CSA persons and entities that possess xylazine (1) lawfully dispensed by a veterinarian or pharmacy and (2) for an animal or for use in…

Latest action

Apr 15, 2026: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 372.

Committee: Senate Judiciary