DEA Cracks Down on Meth's Secret Ingredient: P2P Methyl Glycidic Acid
Published Date: 4/3/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting May 4, 2026, anyone handling P2P methyl glycidic acid—a key chemical used to make illegal drugs like methamphetamine—must follow new government rules and register with the DEA. This means all transactions, big or small, will be closely watched to stop illegal drug production. Businesses dealing with this chemical should act fast to stay legal and avoid penalties.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 5 costs, 0 mixed.
P2P Glycidic Acid Listed May 4, 2026
Effective May 4, 2026, P2P methyl glycidic acid (also called BMK glycidic acid), its esters, isomers, and salts are designated as a List I chemical under the Controlled Substances Act. If you handle this chemical you are subject to the CSA chemical regulatory provisions from that date.
Mandatory DEA Registration Requirement
Anyone who manufactures, distributes, imports, or exports P2P methyl glycidic acid must obtain DEA registration under 21 U.S.C. 822, 823, 957, and 958. DEA provides a temporary exemption from the registration requirement if DEA receives a properly completed application on or before May 4, 2026 (per the DATES statement) and the exemption remains in effect until DEA acts on the application; the final rule text also describes an application deadline of within 30 days after publication for the temporary exemption.
All Mixtures Regulated At Any Concentration
Chemical mixtures containing any amount of P2P methyl glycidic acid are not exempt at any concentration and therefore are regulated under the CSA unless a manufacturer obtains an exemption from DEA under 21 CFR 1310.13. Manufacturers may apply for an exemption, but until (and unless) DEA grants one, mixtures with any quantity are subject to control.
Annual Registration Fees Specified
DEA identifies annual registration fees of $3,699 for manufacturers and $1,850 for distributors, importers, and exporters as primary costs associated with handling listed chemicals. These fees apply if an entity chooses to continue handling P2P methyl glycidic acid under DEA registration.
Records, Reports, and Security Obligations
Handlers must comply with recordkeeping and reporting rules: keep transaction records for two years, submit annual manufacturing/inventory/use data if a regulated bulk manufacturer, and report suspicious or extraordinary transactions. Applicants and registrants must also meet DEA security requirements and are subject to administrative inspection, import/export controls, and civil/criminal liability for unauthorized activities.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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