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Bill

SB 106

Tianeptine product; selling, giving, or distributing, civil penalty.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Stanley

Virginia bill establishes civil penalties for selling or distributing tianeptine products, targeting an unregulated substance marketed as a supplement with opioid-like effects.

Governor's recommendation received by Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 106

Legislative bill overview

SB 106 establishes civil penalties for the selling, giving, or distributing of tianeptine products in Virginia. Tianeptine is a atypical antidepressant that is not FDA-approved for use in the United States but is marketed as a dietary supplement or nootropic (often called "gas station heroin"). The bill creates a regulatory framework to restrict access to this substance through civil rather than criminal enforcement mechanisms.

Why is this important

Tianeptine has gained popularity as an unregulated substance sold in convenience stores and online, with users reporting opioid-like effects and dependence potential. Virginia's action addresses a growing public health concern where a pharmaceutical product is being sold outside traditional medical channels without FDA oversight. The bill demonstrates state-level attempts to control emerging drug trends before they require more severe criminal penalties.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: The bill's definition of "tianeptine products" may be unclear—does it include all formulations or only specific delivery methods, and how does enforcement distinguish regulated pharmaceutical use from unregulated products?
  • Civil vs. criminal penalties: Using civil penalties rather than criminal ones may be seen as either appropriately measured or insufficiently deterrent, depending on perspective on substance regulation philosophy.
  • Interstate commerce complications: Products ordered online from other states or marketed as dietary supplements may create enforcement challenges and raise questions about federal regulatory authority versus state jurisdiction.

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

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