The bill amends the "Uniform Controlled Substances Act" by granting the director of the Department of Health the authority to add, reschedule, or delete substances from the state's list of controlled substances, based on the most current version of Title 21 of the CFR. This amendment allows the director to make changes considering factors such as potential for abuse, scientific evidence, and public health risks. The director's decisions will be filed with the secretary of state and posted on the department's website. Additionally, the bill repeals sections 21-28-2.8, 21-28-2.9, and 21-28-2.10, which previously listed specific controlled substances, and outlines lawful possession and registration requirements for entities dealing with controlled substances.

The bill also proposes the deletion of a wide range of substances from the current law, including various opioids, hallucinogens, depressants, stimulants, and synthetic compounds. Notable deletions include fentanyl analogs, LSD, psilocybin, and synthetic cannabinoids. The bill removes detailed listings of synthetic cathinones and other substances, suggesting a substantial revision of the legal framework for these drugs. Furthermore, the bill introduces new legal language with two insertions: Section 21-28-2.09, exempting compounds with counteragents, and Section 21-28-2.10, exempting dextromethorphan unless controlled under the article's provisions. The act is set to take effect on February 1, 2025, with the intent to align state controlled substances laws with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
2820  SUB A: 21-28-2.1
2820: 21-28-2.1