Attorney General Kris Mayes joined a bipartisan group of 40 other attorneys general on Mar. 31 in urging Congress to pass the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, which would classify the animal tranquilizer xylazine as a federal controlled substance. The coalition sent a letter to House and Senate leaders, emphasizing the growing dangers posed by xylazine when mixed with fentanyl and other opioids.
The call for action comes amid increasing concerns about opioid overdose deaths linked to xylazine, also known as “tranq.” Mayes said, “Xylazine is making already dangerous street drugs even more harmful. I urge Congress to take action to protect Arizona communities from this substance.”
Xylazine is used as a veterinary tranquilizer for large animals and is not approved for human use. Because it is not an opioid, overdoses involving xylazine do not respond to naloxone, making such incidents more deadly. The coalition noted that limited information on the drug’s development and distribution hinders efforts by law enforcement to combat its spread.
The proposed legislation would allow the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) greater authority over tracking and reporting on xylazine production and distribution. With these tools, law enforcement could better address what they describe as a rising threat in many communities.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office plays a significant role in community protection through efforts addressing elder abuse, civil rights violations, unsolved crimes via its cold case unit, and participation in federal lawsuits according to the official website. The office also supports initiatives related to fair housing and accountability measures for social media companies according to the official website.
Mayes serves as Arizona’s 27th attorney general and is recognized as the first mother in this position according to the official website. The Attorney General’s Office acts as Arizona’s chief legal entity with responsibilities that include providing comprehensive legal advocacy and protective services statewide according to the official website.
The letter supporting swift passage of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act was led by attorneys general from New York, Arkansas, Connecticut, Tennessee, along with representatives from states across America.
