Florida is now experiencing an influx of new synthetic drugs—some even more powerful than fentanyl.

This week, I filed an emergency rule to outlaw eight synthetic opioids known as nitazenes, adding these dangerous drugs to the state’s Schedule I controlled substances list. This means possessing or selling them in Florida is now a felony, punishable by time in prison.

I hope this sends a strong message to drug dealers, that we will not allow them to poison Floridians.

While we do not know yet exactly how prevalent nitazenes have become in the illicit drug market, we do know that Florida law enforcement has identified more than 260 cases involving these substances since 2020—including more than 80 so far this year.

Nitazenes have also been linked to at least 15 deaths in our state. The scariest thing about these drugs is that users often have no idea they are taking them.

Like fentanyl, nitazenes are being mixed with other, more common drugs and sold to unsuspecting users—often with deadly consequences.

It was vital that we took swift, decisive action to outlaw these dangerous substances, before they could become a larger part of the illicit drug supply and increase overdoses in Florida.

It is also important that we reach out to people struggling with addiction and let them know that there is help out there. You can find more information and tools through our comprehensive, statewide resource, DoseOfRealityFL.com.

Stay safe, Florida.