California Senate Bill SB6

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/2/24
• Refer: 1/29/25
• Report Pass: 3/25/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Report Pass: 5/23/25
• Engrossed: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/9/25
• Report Pass: 7/2/25
• Refer: 7/2/25

Caption

An act to amend Sections 11014.5, 11056, and 11364.5 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to controlled substances.

Impact

The enactment of SB6 will change the classification of xylazine in California, which currently has limited regulation under existing controlled substances laws. By elevating xylazine's status to a controlled substance, the bill seeks to mitigate the health crises exacerbated by its use as an adulterant in the drug supply. With a growing number of overdose deaths linked to its use, this legislation is a preventive measure designed to avert a rising trend in illicit xylazine trafficking that parallels issues seen in other states. Furthermore, the bill allows for exceptions in cases where xylazine is used in veterinary medicine, thus addressing the needs of the veterinary community while tackling the broader public health concerns.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 6, introduced by Senator Ashby on December 02, 2024, addresses the regulation of xylazine, an animal sedative increasingly found in illicit drug supplies. The bill proposes to classify xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance under the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act. This classification aims to impose stricter regulations on prescribing, possession, and sale of xylazine, which has not been approved for human use, due to its dangerous potential when mixed with opioids, particularly fentanyl. Xylazine, often referred to as 'tranq' or the 'zombie drug', is associated with significant overdose risks as its effects cannot be countered with naloxone, the standard opioid reversal agent.

Contention

While the bill is seen as a necessary response to the opioid crisis and the alarming rise of xylazine in the illicit drug market, there has been contention around the potential impact on veterinary practices that depend on xylazine for animal sedation. Advocates for the veterinary community have expressed concerns that stricter regulations could hinder their ability to effectively treat animals. Critics of the bill may argue that while it addresses a pressing issue, it may inadvertently complicate or restrict legitimate uses of xylazine, leading to a negative impact on animal healthcare.