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A 542

Provides that a fentanyl analogue shall be deemed to be a schedule I opiate

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Judy Griffin and 1 co-sponsor

Summary of Bill A 542: Fentanyl Analogue Scheduling OverviewThis bill aims to classify fentanyl analogues as Schedule I opiates under state law. Fentanyl analogues are synthetic dr

REFERRED TO HEALTH
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Bill Summary · A 542

Summary of Bill A 542: Fentanyl Analogue Scheduling

Overview

This bill aims to classify fentanyl analogues as Schedule I opiates under state law. Fentanyl analogues are synthetic drugs that are chemically similar to the powerful opioid fentanyl. The bill would make the possession, manufacture, and distribution of these substances illegal, subjecting violators to criminal penalties.

Key Provisions

  • Designates any fentanyl analogue as a Schedule I opiate, which is the most restrictive drug classification.
  • Prohibits the possession, manufacture, sale, and distribution of any fentanyl analogues without a valid prescription.
  • Imposes criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for violations of the new fentanyl analogue restrictions.
  • Requires law enforcement and public health agencies to treat fentanyl analogues the same as fentanyl for the purposes of reporting, data collection, and enforcement.

Impacts and Considerations

  • This bill aims to give law enforcement additional tools to combat the growing opioid epidemic and the proliferation of deadly fentanyl-related substances.
  • Classifying fentanyl analogues as Schedule I opiates would make their manufacture and distribution a felony offense, with serious prison sentences for violators.
  • Public health experts argue that a criminal justice approach may not be the most effective way to address the root causes of opioid addiction and overdoses. They advocate for increased investment in harm reduction, treatment, and prevention programs.
  • The bill is part of a broader legislative package addressing the opioid crisis, with companion bills in both the state Assembly and Senate.

Procedural Details

  • Bill A 542 was introduced in the state Assembly on January 9, 2024 and has been referred to the Health Committee for consideration.
  • A companion bill, S 2542, has been introduced in the state Senate.
  • This is not the first time similar legislation has been proposed, with prior-session bills A 2970, A 6757, A 6629, and A 4582 addressing related issues.

Overall, this bill represents an attempt by state lawmakers to strengthen legal restrictions on fentanyl analogues in response to the ongoing opioid epidemic. Its effectiveness and impacts on public health outcomes will likely be debated as the legislative process unfolds.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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