DEA Lists Propionyl Chloride to Thwart Fentanyl Chemists
Published Date: 6/3/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The DEA wants to add propionyl chloride to a special list of chemicals that need extra rules because it’s used to make illegal drugs like fentanyl. If this happens, anyone handling this chemical will have to follow strict regulations, no matter how much they have or if it’s mixed with other stuff. This change aims to stop bad guys from making dangerous drugs and will affect businesses right away.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Propionyl Chloride Added to List I
If your business handles propionyl chloride, the Drug Enforcement Administration is proposing to list it as a List I chemical under the Controlled Substances Act. If finalized, handlers would be subject to the chemical regulatory provisions of the CSA and its implementing regulations.
All Transactions Regulated, No Thresholds
The proposal says all transactions of propionyl chloride will be regulated "regardless of size," and chemical mixtures containing any quantity of propionyl chloride are also regulated at any concentration. That means sellers, buyers, and shippers must follow CSA rules for every amount and every mixture containing the chemical.
Manufacturers Can Seek Exemption
Although no automatic exemption is available, manufacturers may submit an application for exemption from the regulatory requirements for propionyl chloride. This gives manufacturers a formal process to request relief from the List I controls.
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Key Dates
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