A few decades ago Americans were encouraged to “Just Say No” to illegal drug use. Today, one needs only to look online or in the news to see that the overall message of “Just Say No” has failed. More designer drugs hit the streets every day as the federal government struggles to keep up. One particular drug that is cause for concern is xylazine, also known as the “Drug of The Living Dead.”
Xylazine is used as a tranquilizer for large animals such as horses and cows. The drug is not intended for human consumption. Yet, it is often combined with fentanyl and sold on the street. Due to a rise in overdose deaths by fentanyl laced with xylazine in the last three years, the Biden Administration has recognized the deadly combination as an emerging threat to the people of the United States.
House bill 1242
The Federal Government has enacted the “Drug of The Living Dead Act” (HB1242). This House bill states that the use of xylazine by anyone other than a registered veterinarian is considered a Class A misdemeanor. This means that a person who knowingly possesses xylazine along with other substances used to mix with it (such as salt) will face up to eleven months and twenty-nine days in jail. Those who illegally manufacture or distribute the drug for human consumption are committing a Class C felony. Violators can expect to spend three to fifteen years in prison.
Should you find yourself accused of trafficking xylazine or any other illegal substances it is important that you seek legal representation to help you fight the charges.