House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed
State Representative Steven George Xiarhos (R-Barnstable) to a special
legislative commission tasked with addressing the growing public health and
safety concerns surrounding the proliferation of xylazine.
Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer that has been used by licensed
veterinarians since 1971. However, the substance has been raising concern with
law enforcement officials as it has increasingly been found mixed with illicit
drugs being consumed by humans. According to the Massachusetts Department of
Public Health (DPH), “Fentanyl is increasingly being mixed with the veterinary
sedative xylazine (‘tranq’), which continues to be detected in the state’s
street drug supply and was present in 9 percent of opioid-related overdose
deaths in 2023, up from 5 percent in 2022.” In addition to slowing breathing
and heart rates, xylazine exposure can lead to severe skin abscesses and
ulcers, which may result in amputation.
Representative Xiarhos is one of 13 members serving on the Xylazine Commission,
which was created as part of the substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure bill recently signed into law. It will explore ways for Massachusetts
to strengthen oversight of xylazine’s production and distribution, ensuring
that it remains strictly for veterinary use. The commission also will examine
whether xylazine should be classified as a controlled substance and assess
appropriate penalties for its illegal production and distribution. Members will
evaluate the availability of effective outreach and treatment programs for
individuals exposed to xylazine and identify any gaps in existing services. The
commission is required to submit its findings and recommendations by June
30, 2025.
A former Deputy Chief of Police in Yarmouth, Representative Xiarhos brings over
40 years of law enforcement experience to the commission. He has a deep
understanding of the dangers posed by illicit drugs and their devastating
impact on communities. His career has included direct involvement in drug
enforcement, community outreach, and policy development.
“Having spent over 40
years in law enforcement, I understand the severity of the public health risks
posed by drugs like xylazine, which are wreaking havoc on our communities,”
said Representative Xiarhos. “I’m honored to serve on this commission and will
work tirelessly to develop solutions that help prevent the misuse of this drug
and protect the people of Massachusetts. As a member of the Public Safety and
Homeland Security Committee, I’m deeply committed to advancing public safety
and health, and I will bring that dedication to this important task.”
"The misuse of xylazine represents a significant public health and
safety threat,” said Representative Jones. “Rep. Xiarhos' law enforcement
background will aid the commission’s efforts to develop recommendations to help
stop xylazine abuse before it claims more lives. I am pleased to be able to
appoint him to serve on this special commission and I look forward to receiving
the commission's report and recommendations this summer.”
First elected to serve in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 2020, Steve Xiarhos is now serving his third term representing the people of the 5th Barnstable District, which includes the Town of Sandwich and portions of Barnstable and Bourne.
