The bill, H.B. No. 1644, proposes an amendment to the Health and Safety Code regarding the use, possession, delivery, or manufacture of testing equipment that identifies substances listed in Penalty Group 1-B or xylazine. Specifically, it introduces a new provision stating that the existing regulations do not apply to individuals who use, possess with intent to use, deliver, possess with intent to deliver, or manufacture with intent to deliver such testing equipment. This change aims to clarify the legal status of testing equipment in relation to these substances.

The bill stipulates that the changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time, ensuring that prior legal standards remain applicable for those cases. This approach allows for a clear transition to the new regulations while respecting past legal frameworks.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 481.125 (Health and Safety Code 481)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 481.125 (Health and Safety Code 481)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 481.125 (Health and Safety Code 481)