State Rep. Jill N. Cooper | Pennsylvania 55th Legislative District
State Rep. Jill N. Cooper | Pennsylvania 55th Legislative District
Rep. Jill Cooper of Westmoreland has expressed support for new legislation that classifies xylazine, an animal tranquilizer, as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This decision aims to assist law enforcement in addressing the ongoing drug epidemic by keeping xylazine off the streets.
Xylazine is authorized for veterinary use in the U.S., according to the Food and Drug Administration, but it is not currently classified as a controlled substance. The DEA first noted its mixture with other illicit drugs in Puerto Rico during the early 2000s, where it later became a standalone drug of abuse.
The combination of xylazine with opioids like fentanyl complicates overdose responses for first responders because naloxone does not reverse its effects. The DEA reported an increase in xylazine detections by 61% in the Northeast between 2020 and 2021. In Pennsylvania alone, xylazine was involved in 760 overdose deaths in 2022, marking a significant rise from the previous year.
Under its new classification as a Schedule III drug, illegal possession of xylazine will be punishable by up to five years in prison and fines reaching $15,000. Rep. Cooper emphasized ensuring that xylazine remains available for veterinary purposes within agriculture.
Governor Josh Shapiro signed this legislation into law earlier this month, now known as Act 17 of 2024.
Additionally, Rep. Cooper highlighted opportunities such as saving with the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program during May for a chance to win awards totaling over $30,000. Families can participate by opening or contributing to accounts within specific dates.
May also marks National Mental Health Awareness Month, promoting awareness and combating stigma around mental health issues. Information about mental health services in Pennsylvania can be found through county programs or online resources.
For more information or assistance related to suicide prevention, individuals are encouraged to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
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