Rep. Panetta, House members call on leadership to act on Xylazine bill

Reps. Jimmy Panetta and August Pfluger are co-leading a coalition of 42 House members advocating for the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, highlighting an urgent public health issue. Xylazine, a veterinary sedative, is increasingly found in the illicit drug supply, often mixed with fentanyl, leading to a rise in fatal overdoses across the nation. The coalition is pressing Congress for quick legislative action to address the growing threat posed by xylazine, which has become a significant concern in the ongoing opioid crisis. Panetta, who represents California's Carmel Valley, stated that the legislation is crucial for protecting communities from the devastating impacts of this drug.

The call for action is not just a political maneuver but a response to alarming statistics showing rising overdose rates linked to xylazine. This bipartisan effort reflects a collective recognition of the need for comprehensive solutions to combat the evolving opioid epidemic. As lawmakers face increasing pressure to act, the coalition's initiative aims to bring immediate attention to the dangers of xylazine and foster a collaborative approach to public health safety. Supporting this bill could lead to significant changes in how federal and state authorities manage the distribution and misuse of such substances.