Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced on Mar. 26 that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has responded to a coalition of attorneys general by banning bromazolam, also known as “Designer Xanax,” across the country.
The move comes after concerns about the dangers of bromazolam, which is now classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification puts it in the same category as heroin and LSD, giving law enforcement more authority to address its distribution and use. The decision follows a joint request last year from several state attorneys general for emergency action.
“The DEA’s decisive action arms law enforcement officers across the state with the critical tools and authority they need to stand firmly against the growing threat of dangerous and unpredictable substances like bromazolam,” Marshall said. “As evidenced by our successful litigation holding opioid manufacturers accountable, we are committed to protecting our communities. With the recent news, Alabama is better equipped than ever to do so.”
Bromazolam has become a growing concern due to its potency and because overdoses are difficult to detect or treat; commonly used medications like naloxone or Narcan do not work against it, increasing risks for fatal outcomes.
The Alabama Attorney General office works to enhance safety statewide through initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime and supporting victims, according to the official website. The office also received recognition for its efforts during emergencies such as receiving the 2020 Hometown Hero honor from the Alabama League of Municipalities for staff actions during the pandemic according to its official website.
Marshall has served as Alabama’s forty-eighth attorney general since his swearing-in on Feb. 10, 2017 according to official records. The attorney general’s office acts as Alabama’s chief law enforcement agency with jurisdiction across all counties and provides legal representation in major cases including defending convictions under laws such as the Brody Act before higher courts as reported by its official site.