Bill > SB1553

This bill amends the Illinois Controlled Substances Act to schedule xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance and establish corresponding legal penalties for its manufacture, delivery, and possession. Specifically, the bill adds xylazine to the list of Schedule III controlled substances and creates graduated criminal penalties based on the quantity of xylazine involved, ranging from Class 2 to Class X felonies with corresponding prison sentences and potential fines. Importantly, the bill includes a specific exemption for licensed veterinarians, who are permitted to prescribe, dispense, administer, acquire, or use xylazine while acting in good faith and in accordance with professional medical standards. The legislation reflects growing concerns about xylazine, a tranquilizer primarily used in veterinary medicine, which has increasingly been found in the illicit drug supply and associated with dangerous overdose situations. By classifying xylazine as a controlled substance, the bill aims to regulate its distribution and use while maintaining professional medical exceptions.

Justice

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1553&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104