The resolution urges the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to enhance public awareness regarding the dangers associated with xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer that has emerged as a concerning street drug, also referred to as "Tranq" or "Zombie Drug." Xylazine is not approved for human use and has been linked to a rising number of overdose deaths in New Jersey and neighboring states. As a central nervous system depressant, it can lead to severe health issues, including drowsiness, amnesia, and dangerously low levels of breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The resolution highlights the risks of using xylazine, particularly in combination with other drugs like fentanyl, which can exacerbate the potential for life-threatening overdoses.

The resolution calls for the DOH to take proactive measures to educate the public about the risks of xylazine use, emphasizing the need for appropriate educational resources. It notes that xylazine is often used in conjunction with other substances, complicating overdose scenarios, as naloxone, the standard treatment for opioid overdoses, is ineffective against xylazine. The resolution reflects a growing public health threat posed by xylazine and underscores the importance of raising awareness to prevent further harm to individuals and communities in New Jersey.