Pennsylvania criminalizes illicit use of xylazine, also known as tranq

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has signed a bill that criminalizes the illicit use of xylazine, a powerful animal tranquilizer that the Governor’s office “is increasingly found in Pennsylvania’s street drug supply.”

The law, which permanently classifies the drug also known as “tranq,” passed the State House and Senate with bipartisan support. While xylazine is now considered a Schedule III Drug (along with substances such as ketamine and anabolic steroids) in Pennsylvania, the law allows for continued access for veterinarians to use the substance on large animals.

Drug manufacturers and distributors must not only verify that a practitioner is licensed but that they are also authorized to receive a controlled substance. There will also be more checks in an ordering system to ensure the proper address for delivery and receipt.

Last year Governor Shapiro had temporarily directed that xylazine be considered a controlled substance, but formal legislation was needed to make that designation permanent.

“By signing this bill into law today, we are sending a powerful message to drug dealers that we will not let you continue to peddle this poison in our communities,” said Governor Shapiro. “This bill helps to ensure xylazine isn’t diverted from legitimate sources to drug dealers, and still allows for important veterinary use on animals. While we hold drug dealers accountable, my Administration will continue to pursue a multidisciplinary approach to the opioid epidemic – investing in law enforcement, treatment, and prevention. We will continue to work with harm reduction professionals to expand access to treatment and recovery services across the Commonwealth.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Health says in 2022 xylazine contributed to 760 overdose deaths. Over the last five years, preliminary data shows a 22-fold increase in overdose deaths in Pennsylvania from xylazine.

“This is an important step to help protect people from illicit xylazine use while allowing veterinarians to use it when needed for large animals,” said Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Our focus remains on harm reduction strategies, reducing stigma associated with substance use and addiction, providing education and training to reduce overdose, and helping people get connected to treatment and other services.”

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