Florida Drug Law Changes Bring Stricter Penalties for Xylazine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine

Florida’s drug laws are undergoing significant changes that will increase criminal penalties for certain substances beginning in October 2026. According to Tampa defense attorney Ben Stechschulte of Stechschulte Nell, the passage of Senate Bill 432 adds 7-hydroxymitragynine to Florida’s list of Schedule I controlled substances and creates new criminal offenses related to the sale, manufacturing, delivery, and trafficking of xylazine. These updates fall under Chapter 893 of Florida’s Statutes, which governs drug abuse prevention, controlled substance classifications, and criminal penalties statewide.

While certain FDA-approved animal drug products containing xylazine are excluded for specific veterinary purposes, unlawful possession and distribution will be treated as serious felony offenses. Under the bill, individuals accused of trafficking xylazine could face mandatory minimum prison sentences and substantial fines based on the quantity in question. Once the new provisions take effect, law enforcement and prosecutors will have expanded authority to pursue charges tied to these substances, significantly raising the stakes for anyone accused of violations.

Stechschulte, a former prosecutor and board-certified defense attorney, notes that many people charged under Florida’s drug laws are ordinary individuals facing overwhelming consequences for a single mistake. The firm’s educational efforts aim to help Floridians understand their rights as new rules surrounding certain substances carry significant criminal penalties. By providing information about evolving drug laws, the firm works to reduce the long-term damage a criminal charge can cause.

The changes represent a substantial shift in how Florida approaches regulation of these specific substances. As the October 2026 implementation date approaches, understanding these legal modifications becomes increasingly important for residents who may be affected by the stricter enforcement framework. The legislative action demonstrates continued focus on controlled substance regulation through Chapter 893, which serves as the foundation for drug-related criminal statutes throughout the state.

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