The bill amends Florida Statutes to reclassify the controlled substance xylazine from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug, while exempting FDA-approved xylazine products intended for veterinary use. It introduces a definition for "person" and establishes criminal penalties for the sale, manufacture, or delivery of xylazine, as well as for possession with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver. A new offense of trafficking in xylazine is created, with mandatory minimum sentences and fines that vary based on the quantity involved, ranging from 7 years and a $50,000 fine for 4 to 14 grams, to 25 years and a $500,000 fine for 28 grams or more.

In addition to xylazine, the bill expands the list of controlled substances to include various synthetic cannabinoids and related compounds, closing loopholes that may allow for their legal sale. It specifies that any material containing these synthetic cannabinoids will be classified as controlled substances unless exempted or FDA-approved. The legislation aims to enhance public safety by tightening regulations around these substances and ensuring law enforcement can effectively combat drug trafficking. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1360 Filed: 893.13, 893.135