Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB866

Introduced
7/24/25  

Caption

Further providing for schedules of controlled substances and for secure storage of xylazine; and adding provisions relating to medetomidine.

Impact

The proposed changes from SB866 are expected to impact state laws regarding the categorization and management of controlled substances. By specifically addressing xylazine and medetomidine, the bill recognizes the unique challenges posed by these substances, which have gained prominence in discussions around drug addiction and misuse. This legislation is seen as an essential step in addressing gaps in current regulations, thereby improving overall control and safety measures associated with these drugs.

Summary

SB866 aims to enhance the regulation of controlled substances by providing clearer schedules for substances and establishing secure storage protocols for xylazine and introducing provisions related to medetomidine. The bill reflects increasing concern about the misuse of certain substances, particularly xylazine, which has been associated with various public health issues. Through these enhancements, the bill seeks to improve public safety and health outcomes when dealing with these controlled substances.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards SB866 has leaned towards support, as stakeholders acknowledge the need for updated and relevant regulations concerning controlled substances. Many advocates for public health and safety view the bill as a proactive measure to tackle growing concerns around drug misuse. However, some discretionary opinions express concerns regarding rigorous enforcement and how it may affect access for legitimate medical use.

Contention

While SB866 appears to be widely supported, points of contention may arise around the implementation of secure storage requirements and the appropriateness of the scheduling of substances like xylazine and medetomidine. Stakeholders might debate the balance between ensuring public health and safety while not restricting access to necessary medications. The discussions in committee sessions may reflect differing opinions on how stringent the regulations should be to protect community wellbeing.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1661

Further providing for schedules of controlled substances; and providing for secure storage of xylazine.

PA HB1695

Further providing for schedules of controlled substances.

PA SB683

In public safety, providing for urine drug screening requirement and for xylazine awareness education.

PA HB2363

Further providing for title and short title of act, for definitions, for establishment of program, for restocking and dispensing of cancer drugs, for storage, distribution and fees and for immunity, providing for annual report and for list of approved participating pharmacies and further providing for regulations.

PA SB1169

Further providing for definitions and for drug overdose medication.

PA HB983

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA SB165

Further providing for prohibited acts and penalties.

PA HB2084

Further providing for definitions, for license application and for storage, handling and recordkeeping.

PA HB1993

Further providing for title of act; in preliminary provisions, further providing for short title, for scope of act and for definitions and providing for regulations; in pharmacy audits, further providing for limitations; in registration, further providing for PBM and auditing entity registration; providing for pharmacy benefits manager contracts; in PBM cost transparency requirements, providing for PBM transparency report required, repealing provisions relating to regulations and providing for PSAO reporting requirements; in enforcements, further providing for scope of enforcement authority; providing for pharmacy services; and making repeals.

PA HB1708

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in pupils and attendance, providing for educational oversight for students in facilities, further providing for possession of weapons prohibited and providing for school stability for certain students; in safe schools, further providing for definitions and for reporting and establishing the School-Based Diversion Programs Fund; in school security, further providing for powers and duties and providing for limitations on proceedings and arrest; and, in school districts of the first class, repealing provisions relating to placement of certain adjudicated students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.