DEA Denies Sketchy Applicant's Drug Handling Bid
Published Date: 7/14/2025
Notice
Summary
Michael Bouknight from Pennsylvania tried to get permission to handle controlled substances but didn’t have the proper state approval and gave false info on his applications. Because he didn’t respond in time, the DEA denied all his current and pending applications. This means he can’t legally handle controlled substances, and the decision is final as of early 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
DEA Registrations Denied; Effectively Barred
The DEA denied Michael Bouknight’s pending applications for registration (Control Nos. W24128628C and W24092701C) and also denied any other pending applications of his in Pennsylvania. The denial is ordered effective August 13, 2025, which means he may not legally hold a DEA registration to handle controlled substances in Pennsylvania.
Found Not Licensed in Pennsylvania
The Agency found, based on Pennsylvania licensing records, that Michael Bouknight is not licensed or otherwise authorized to handle controlled substances in Pennsylvania. Because state authority is required to obtain a DEA registration, the Agency concluded he is ineligible for registration in Pennsylvania.
Material Falsification Found on Applications
The Agency found that on July 8, 2024 and September 6, 2024, the applicant submitted DEA registration applications for Schedules II–V and entered a Pennsylvania physician license number that belonged to another person. The Agency found those entries to be material falsifications supporting denial under 21 U.S.C. 824(a)(1).
Limited Opportunity to Seek Reconsideration
The Order notes that the Agency took official notice that the applicant lacks a Pennsylvania license and states that the applicant may, within fifteen calendar days of the date of this Order, file a motion for reconsideration of that factual finding by submitting a properly supported motion and response by email to the DEA Office of the Administrator.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11526 — Implementation of the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention That Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities Act of 2018: Dispensing and Administering Controlled Substances for Medication-Assisted Treatment
Starting July 9, 2026, new rules make it easier for doctors and pharmacies to provide medicine that helps people recover from opioid addiction. These changes affect healthcare providers by expanding who can give medication-assisted treatment and how pharmacies can deliver these medicines. The goal? Faster, safer access to treatment with clear rules that save time and support recovery.
2026-10128 — Revision of Applications for Manufacturing and Procurement Quotas
The DEA wants to update how companies apply for permission to make and buy certain controlled drugs and chemicals. These changes will make the rules clearer, help prevent drug shortages, and ensure enough supply for medical and scientific needs. If you’re a manufacturer or involved in this process, get ready to follow new steps and share your thoughts by July 20, 2026.
2026-11572 — Ashley Vermillion, N.P.; Decision and Order
Ashley Vermillion, a nurse practitioner from Maine, lost her DEA registration because she no longer has the legal right to handle controlled substances in her state. She didn’t ask for a hearing, so the DEA moved forward and officially revoked her registration. This means she can’t prescribe or manage controlled drugs anymore, effective immediately.
2026-11416 — Importer of Controlled Substances Application: CalCog Inc.
CalCog Inc. wants to become an official importer of some powerful controlled substances like LSD and 5-MeO-DMT. People and companies involved with these drugs have until July 8, 2026, to share their thoughts or ask for a hearing. This move could shake up the import scene, but no costs or changes happen until the DEA decides.
2026-10380 — Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of Diphenidine in Schedule I
The DEA wants to put diphenidine, a drug, into Schedule I, which means it will be treated like the most tightly controlled substances. This change affects anyone who makes, sells, studies, or owns diphenidine, adding strict rules and penalties. You’ve got until June 25, 2026, to share your thoughts before the new rules might kick in.
2026-10253 — Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of 2-Fluorodeschloroketamine in Schedule I
Starting May 22, 2026, the DEA is putting 2-fluorodeschloroketamine (2-FDCK) into Schedule I, meaning it’s now treated like the most dangerous drugs. This affects anyone who makes, sells, or uses it, adding strict rules and serious penalties. The temporary ban lasts two years, giving the government time to decide if it should stay permanent.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-13116 — Notice of Public Meetings of the Idaho Resource Advisory Council
The Idaho Resource Advisory Council is holding public meetings to talk about how to take care of public lands in Idaho. If you love outdoor spaces or use these lands, these meetings are your chance to share ideas and hear updates. The meetings won’t cost you a dime but could shape how Idaho’s lands are managed soon.
Next: 2025-13118 — Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA); Interpretation of “Federal Public Benefit”
This update explains what counts as a “Federal public benefit” under a 1996 law that affects who can get certain government help. It changes and expands the list of health and social programs covered, making it clearer who qualifies or doesn’t. These changes help make sure benefits go to the right people and could affect access starting now.