Bill > HB1109

This bill establishes the Medetomidine and Xylazine Consumer Protection Act, which regulates the sale of products containing medetomidine and xylazine, two substances that can be potentially misused. The legislation requires retailers (defined broadly to include manufacturers, wholesalers, online platforms, and other business entities) to verify the purchaser's intent to use these products only for institutional, veterinary, or scientific purposes. Retailers are prohibited from selling medetomidine or xylazine products to individuals under 21 years old and must maintain detailed records of each sale, including identification proving the purchaser's age and documentation demonstrating the intended use. Violations of these regulations will result in civil penalties, with first-time offenders facing fines up to $3,000 and subsequent violations incurring fines of $6,500. All collected civil penalties will be remitted to the Comptroller and deposited into the Maryland Substance Abuse Fund. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and requires the state Department to develop regulations for implementing these provisions.