Lizzie Fletcher

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Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of H.R. 1266. This legislation classifies xylazine as a schedule III controlled substance while including provisions to preserve access for veterinarians, livestock producers, and researchers. Over the last decade, xylazine has been increasingly found in the illicit drug supply as a low-cost cutting agent intended to strengthen street drugs. Because of its use in veterinary medicine, drug traffickers realized that they could buy powdered xylazine, and it has become the most common drug mixed with fentanyl. This potent drug combination poses severe health and safety risks, and there has been a dramatic increase in overdoses involving xylazine. Xylazine remains an important prescription sedative that facilitates the safe handling and treatment of many animal species. For example, it is important for use in cattle, as there is no practical alternative for sedation. This legislation protects the legitimate use of xylazine for veterinary medicine and fights the spread of illicit xylazine among humans, but scheduling alone will not get us out of the overdose epidemic. We need investment in harm reduction, prevention, and treatment services to reduce overdose deaths across the Nation. We need a comprehensive, evidence-based public health approach to address this crisis. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bill and to work with me on legislation that will expand access to prevention, treatment, and recovery. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.