81_FR_79608 81 FR 79389 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of U-47700 Into Schedule I

81 FR 79389 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of U-47700 Into Schedule I

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Drug Enforcement Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 219 (November 14, 2016)

Page Range79389-79393
FR Document2016-27357

The Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration is issuing this final order to temporarily schedule the synthetic opioid, 3,4-dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (also known as U-47700), and its isomers, esters, ethers, salts and salts of isomers, esters and ethers, into schedule I pursuant to the temporary scheduling provisions of the Controlled Substances Act. This action is based on a finding by the Administrator that the placement of U-47700 into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act is necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety. As a result of this order, the regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable to schedule I controlled substances will be imposed on persons who handle (manufacture, distribute, reverse distribute, import, export, engage in research, conduct instructional activities or chemical analysis, or possess), or propose to handle, U-47700.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 219 (Monday, November 14, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 219 (Monday, November 14, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 79389-79393]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-27357]


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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Drug Enforcement Administration

21 CFR Part 1308

[Docket No. DEA-440]


Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of U-
47700 Into Schedule I

AGENCY: Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice.

ACTION: Final order.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration is 
issuing this final order to temporarily schedule the synthetic opioid, 
3,4-dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (also 
known as U-47700), and its isomers, esters, ethers, salts and salts of 
isomers, esters and ethers, into schedule I pursuant to the temporary 
scheduling provisions of the Controlled Substances Act. This action is 
based on a finding by the Administrator that the placement of U-47700 
into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act is necessary to avoid 
an imminent hazard to the public safety. As a result of this order, the 
regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions 
applicable to schedule I controlled substances will be imposed on 
persons who handle (manufacture, distribute, reverse distribute, 
import, export, engage in research, conduct instructional activities or 
chemical analysis, or possess), or propose to handle, U-47700.

DATES: This final order is effective on November 14, 2016.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael J. Lewis, Diversion Control 
Division, Drug Enforcement Administration; Mailing Address: 8701 
Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 22152; Telephone: (202) 598-
6812.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Legal Authority

    The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) implements and enforces 
titles II and III of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and 
Control Act of 1970, as amended. 21 U.S.C. 801-971. Titles II and III 
are referred to as the ``Controlled Substances Act'' and the 
``Controlled Substances Import and Export Act,'' respectively, and are 
collectively referred to as the ``Controlled Substances Act'' or the 
``CSA'' for the purpose of this action. The DEA publishes the 
implementing regulations

[[Page 79390]]

for these statutes in title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
(CFR), chapter II. The CSA and its implementing regulations are 
designed to prevent, detect, and eliminate the diversion of controlled 
substances and listed chemicals into the illicit market while ensuring 
an adequate supply is available for the legitimate medical, scientific, 
research, and industrial needs of the United States. Controlled 
substances have the potential for abuse and dependence and are 
controlled to protect the public health and safety.
    Under the CSA, every controlled substance is classified into one of 
five schedules based upon its potential for abuse, its currently 
accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and the degree 
of dependence the drug or other substance may cause. 21 U.S.C. 812. The 
initial schedules of controlled substances established by Congress are 
found at 21 U.S.C. 812(c), and the current list of all scheduled 
substances is published at 21 CFR part 1308.
    Section 201 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811, provides the Attorney 
General with the authority to temporarily place a substance into 
schedule I of the CSA for two years without regard to the requirements 
of 21 U.S.C. 811(b) if she finds that such action is necessary to avoid 
an imminent hazard to the public safety. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). In 
addition, if proceedings to control a substance are initiated under 21 
U.S.C. 811(a)(1), the Attorney General may extend the temporary 
scheduling for up to one year. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2).
    Where the necessary findings are made, a substance may be 
temporarily scheduled if it is not listed in any other schedule under 
section 202 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 812, or if there is no exemption or 
approval in effect for the substance under section 505 of the Federal 
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), 21 U.S.C. 355. 21 U.S.C. 
811(h)(1). The Attorney General has delegated her scheduling authority 
under 21 U.S.C. 811 to the Administrator of the DEA. 28 CFR 0.100.

Background

    Section 201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(4), requires the 
Administrator to notify the Secretary of the Department of Health and 
Human Services (HHS) of his intention to temporarily place a substance 
into schedule I of the CSA.\1\ The Administrator transmitted the notice 
of intent to place U-47700 into schedule I on a temporary basis to the 
Assistant Secretary by letter dated April 18, 2016. The Assistant 
Secretary responded to this notice by letter dated April 28, 2016, and 
advised that based on review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 
there are currently no investigational new drug applications or 
approved new drug applications for U-47700. The Assistant Secretary 
also stated that the HHS has no objection to the temporary placement of 
U-47700 into schedule I of the CSA. The DEA has taken into 
consideration the Assistant Secretary's comments as required by 21 
U.S.C. 811(h)(4). U-47700 is not currently listed in any schedule under 
the CSA, and no exemptions or approvals are in effect for U-47700 under 
section 505 of the FDCA, 21 U.S.C. 355. The DEA has found that the 
control of U-47700 in schedule I on a temporary basis is necessary to 
avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety, and as required by 21 
U.S.C. 811(h)(1)(A), a notice of intent to temporarily schedule U-47700 
was published in the Federal Register on September 7, 2016. 81 FR 
61636.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ As discussed in a memorandum of understanding entered into 
by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institute 
on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the FDA acts as the lead agency within the HHS 
in carrying out the Secretary's scheduling responsibilities under 
the CSA, with the concurrence of NIDA. 50 FR 9518, Mar. 8, 1985. The 
Secretary of the HHS has delegated to the Assistant Secretary for 
Health of the HHS the authority to make domestic drug scheduling 
recommendations. 58 FR 35460, July 1, 1993.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To find that placing a substance temporarily into schedule I of the 
CSA is necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety, the 
Administrator is required to consider three of the eight factors set 
forth in section 201(c) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(c): The substance's 
history and current pattern of abuse; the scope, duration and 
significance of abuse; and what, if any, risk there is to the public 
health. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3). Consideration of these factors includes 
actual abuse, diversion from legitimate channels, and clandestine 
importation, manufacture, or distribution. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3).
    A substance meeting the statutory requirements for temporary 
scheduling may only be placed into schedule I. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). 
Substances in schedule I are those that have a high potential for 
abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United 
States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical 
supervision. 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1). Available data and information for U-
47700, summarized below, indicate that this synthetic opioid has a high 
potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in 
the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical 
supervision. The DEA's updated three-factor analysis, and the Assistant 
Secretary's April 28, 2016, letter, are available in their entirety 
under the tab ``Supporting Documents'' of the public docket of this 
action at www.regulations.gov under FDMS Docket ID: DEA-2016-0016 
(Docket Number DEA-440).

Factor 4. History and Current Pattern of Abuse

    The recreational abuse of novel opioids continues to be a 
significant concern. These substances are distributed to users with 
often unpredictable outcomes. The novel synthetic opioid U-47700 has 
recently been encountered by law enforcement and public health 
officials and the adverse health effects and outcomes are documented in 
the scientific literature. Self-reporting by users describes the 
effects of U-47700 to be similar to other opioids. The negative effects 
documented in the scientific literature are also consistent with other 
opioids. The National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) is 
a national drug forensic laboratory reporting system that 
systematically collects results from drug chemistry analyses conducted 
by participating Federal, State, and local forensic laboratories across 
the country. The DEA utilizes NFLIS to monitor for drug trends. The 
first laboratory submission of U-47700 was recorded in October 2015; a 
total of 88 records were reported from State and local forensic 
laboratories between October 2015--September 2016 according to NFLIS 
(query date: October 24, 2016).
    On October 1, 2014, the DEA implemented STARLiMS (a web-based, 
commercial laboratory information management system) as its laboratory 
drug evidence data system of record. DEA laboratory data submitted 
after September 30, 2014, are reposited in STARLiMS; data from STARLiMS 
were queried on November 1, 2016. STARLiMS registered 45 reports 
containing U-47700 in 2016 from California, Connecticut, Florida, 
Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, 
Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Through 
information collected from NFLIS, law enforcement reports, and email 
communications, the DEA is aware of the identification of U-47700 from 
toxicology reports and submitted evidence to forensic laboratories in 
several states, including Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, 
Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, New

[[Page 79391]]

Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, 
Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin. These 
identifications occurred in 2015 and 2016.
    Evidence suggests that the pattern of abuse of U-47700 parallels 
that of heroin, prescription opioid analgesics, and other novel 
opioids. Seizures of U-47700 have been encountered in powder form and 
in counterfeit tablets that mimic pharmaceutical opioids. U-47700 has 
also been encountered in glassine bags and envelopes and knotted 
corners of plastic bags. These clandestine forms of distribution 
demonstrate the abuse of this substance as a replacement for heroin or 
other opioids, either knowingly or unknowingly. Further, U-47700 has 
been encountered as a single substance as well as in combination with 
other substances, including heroin, fentanyl, and furanyl fentanyl in 
drug exhibits.
    The scientific literature and information collected by DEA 
demonstrate U-47700 is being abused for its opioid properties. The 
distribution of U-47700 and the increased prevalence of abuse remain 
deeply concerning to the DEA.

Factor 5. Scope, Duration and Significance of Abuse

    The scientific literature and reports collected by the DEA 
demonstrate U-47700 is being abused for its opioid properties. This 
abuse of U-47700 has resulted in morbidity and mortality (see updated 
DEA 3-Factor Analysis for full discussion). The DEA has received 
reports for at least 46 confirmed fatalities \2\ associated with U-
47700. The information on these deaths occurring in 2015 and 2016 was 
collected from email communications and toxicology and medical examiner 
reports and was reported from New Hampshire (1), New York (31), North 
Carolina (10), Ohio (1), Texas (2), and Wisconsin (1). The scientific 
literature notes additional fatal overdoses connected to U-47700. The 
population likely to abuse U-47700 appears to overlap with the 
populations abusing prescription opioid analgesics, other ``designer 
opioids,'' and heroin, as evidenced by drug use history documented in 
U-47700 fatal overdose cases. This observation is further supported by 
U-47700 being sold on the illicit market in glassine bags, some of 
which are marked with stamped logos, imitating the sale of heroin. 
Additionally, U-47700 has been found in counterfeit pills. Because 
abusers of U-47700 are likely to obtain this substance through non-
regulated sources (i.e., on-line purchases or drug dealers), the 
identity, purity, and quantity are uncertain and inconsistent, thus 
posing significant adverse health risks to the end user. Individuals 
who initiate (i.e., use a drug for the first time) U-47700 abuse are 
likely to be at risk of developing substance use disorder, overdose, 
and death similar to that of other opioid analgesics (e.g., fentanyl, 
morphine, etc.).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ Due to a proofreading error, the number of fatalities listed 
in the U-47700 NOI, which was 15, is incorrect. The correct number, 
46, has been added to this Final Order.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    STARLiMS contains 45 reports in which U-47700 was identified in 
drug exhibits submitted in 2016. A query of NFLIS returned 88 records 
of U-47700 being identified in exhibits submitted to State and local 
forensic laboratories between October 2015--September 2016. The DEA is 
not aware of any laboratory analyses of drug evidence identifying U-
47700 prior to 2015, indicating that this synthetic opioid only 
recently became available as a replacement for other opioids that are 
commonly abused (i.e. oxycodone, heroin, fentanyl). U-47700 is 
available over the Internet and is marketed as a ``research chemical.'' 
The on-line sale and marketing of U-47700 are similar to other new 
psychoactive substances that have rapidly appeared on the recreational 
drug market and also resulted in negative consequences for the user.

Factor 6. What, if Any, Risk There Is to the Public Health

    U-47700 exhibits pharmacological profiles similar to that of 
morphine and other mu-opioid receptor agonists. Cases of intoxication 
are reported in the literature with morbidity and mortality associated 
with U-47700 use. The toxic effects of U-47700 in humans are 
demonstrated by overdoses and overdose fatalities associated with this 
substance, as reported in the scientific literature. Abusers of U-47700 
may not know the origin, identity, or purity of this substance, thus 
posing significant adverse health risks when compared to abuse of 
pharmaceutical preparations of opioid analgesics, such as morphine and 
oxycodone. Additionally, the potent opioid U-47700 may serve as a 
precursor to problematic opioid use and dependence.
    Based on reports in the scientific literature and information 
received by the DEA, the abuse of U-47700 leads to the same qualitative 
public health risks as heroin, fentanyl and other opioid analgesic 
substances. As with any non-medically approved opioid, the health and 
safety risks for users are great. The public health risks attendant to 
the abuse of heroin and opioid analgesics are well established and have 
resulted in large numbers of drug treatment admissions, emergency 
department visits, and fatal overdoses.
    U-47700 has been associated with a number of fatalities and non-
fatal overdoses as detailed in the scientific literature. The DEA has 
received information connecting U-47700 to at least 46 confirmed 
overdose deaths, occurring in 2015 and 2016 in New Hampshire (1), New 
York (31), North Carolina (10), Ohio (1), Texas (2), and Wisconsin (1).

Finding of Necessity of Schedule I Placement To Avoid Imminent Hazard 
to Public Safety

    In accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3), based on the data and 
information summarized above, the continued uncontrolled manufacture, 
distribution, importation, exportation, and abuse of U-47700 pose an 
imminent hazard to the public safety. The DEA is not aware of any 
currently accepted medical uses for this substance in the United 
States. A substance meeting the statutory requirements for temporary 
scheduling, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1), may only be placed into schedule I. 
Substances in schedule I are those that have a high potential for 
abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United 
States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical 
supervision. Available data and information for U-47700 indicate that 
this substance has a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted 
medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted 
safety for use under medical supervision. As required by section 
201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(4), the Administrator, through a 
letter dated April 18, 2016, notified the Assistant Secretary of the 
DEA's intention to temporarily place this substance into schedule I.

Conclusion

    In accordance with the provisions of section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 
U.S.C. 811(h), the Administrator considered available data and 
information, herein sets forth the grounds for his determination that 
it is necessary to temporarily schedule U-47700 into schedule I of the 
CSA, and finds that placement of this synthetic opioid into schedule I 
of the CSA is necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public 
safety. Because the Administrator hereby finds it necessary to 
temporarily place this synthetic opioid into schedule I to avoid an 
imminent hazard

[[Page 79392]]

to the public safety, this final order temporarily scheduling U-47700 
will be effective on the date of publication in the Federal Register, 
and will be in effect for a period of two years, with a possible 
extension of one additional year, pending completion of the regular 
(permanent) scheduling process. 21 U.S.C. 811(h) (1) and (2).
    The CSA sets forth specific criteria for scheduling a drug or other 
substance. Permanent scheduling actions in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 
811(a) are subject to formal rulemaking procedures done ``on the record 
after opportunity for a hearing'' conducted pursuant to the provisions 
of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557. 21 U.S.C. 811. The permanent scheduling 
process of formal rulemaking affords interested parties with 
appropriate process and the government with any additional relevant 
information needed to make a determination. Final decisions that 
conclude the permanent scheduling process of formal rulemaking are 
subject to judicial review. 21 U.S.C. 877. Temporary scheduling orders 
are not subject to judicial review. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(6).

Requirements for Handling

    Upon the effective date of this final order, U-47700 will become 
subject to the regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and 
criminal sanctions applicable to the manufacture, distribution, reverse 
distribution, importation, exportation, engagement in research, and 
conduct of instructional activities or chemical analysis with, and 
possession of schedule I controlled substances including the following:
    1. Registration. Any person who handles (manufactures, distributes, 
reverse distributes, imports, exports, engages in research, or conducts 
instructional activities or chemical analysis with, or possesses), or 
who desires to handle, U-47700 must be registered with the DEA to 
conduct such activities pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 822, 823, 957, and 958 
and in accordance with 21 CFR parts 1301 and 1312, as of November 14, 
2016. Any person who currently handles U-47700, and is not registered 
with the DEA, must submit an application for registration and may not 
continue to handle U-47700 as of November 14, 2016, unless the DEA has 
approved that application for registration pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 822, 
823, 957, 958, and in accordance with 21 CFR parts 1301 and 1312. 
Retail sales of schedule I controlled substances to the general public 
are not allowed under the CSA. Possession of any quantity of this 
substance in a manner not authorized by the CSA on or after November 
14, 2016 is unlawful and those in possession of any quantity of this 
substance may be subject to prosecution pursuant to the CSA.
    2. Disposal of stocks. Any person who does not desire or is not 
able to obtain a schedule I registration to handle U-47700, must 
surrender all quantities of currently held U-47700.
    3. Security. U-47700 is subject to schedule I security requirements 
and must be handled and stored pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 821, 823, 871(b), 
and in accordance with 21 CFR 1301.71-1301.93, as of November 14, 2016.
    4. Labeling and packaging. All labels, labeling, and packaging for 
commercial containers of U-47700 must be in compliance with 21 U.S.C. 
825, 958(e), and be in accordance with 21 CFR part 1302. Current DEA 
registrants shall have 30 calendar days from November 14, 2016, to 
comply with all labeling and packaging requirements.
    5. Inventory. Every DEA registrant who possesses any quantity of U-
47700 on the effective date of this order must take an inventory of all 
stocks of this substance on hand, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, 
and in accordance with 21 CFR 1304.03, 1304.04, and 1304.11. Current 
DEA registrants shall have 30 calendar days from the effective date of 
this order to be in compliance with all inventory requirements. After 
the initial inventory, every DEA registrant must take an inventory of 
all controlled substances (including U-47700) on hand on a biennial 
basis, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, and in accordance with 21 CFR 
1304.03, 1304.04, and 1304.11.
    6. Records. All DEA registrants must maintain records with respect 
to U-47700 pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, and in accordance with 21 
CFR parts 1304, and 1312, 1317 and Sec.  1307.11. Current DEA 
registrants shall have 30 calendar days from the effective date of this 
order to be in compliance with all recordkeeping requirements.
    7. Reports. All DEA registrants who manufacture or distribute U-
47700 must submit reports pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and in accordance 
with 21 CFR parts 1304, and 1312 as of November 14, 2016.
    8. Order Forms. All DEA registrants who distribute U-47700 must 
comply with order form requirements pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 828 and in 
accordance with 21 CFR part 1305 as of November 14, 2016.
    9. Importation and Exportation. All importation and exportation of 
U-47700 must be in compliance with 21 U.S.C. 952, 953, 957, 958, and in 
accordance with 21 CFR part 1312 as of November 14, 2016.
    10. Quota. Only DEA registered manufacturers may manufacture U-
47700 in accordance with a quota assigned pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 826 and 
in accordance with 21 CFR part 1303 as of November 14, 2016.
    11. Liability. Any activity involving U-47700 not authorized by, or 
in violation of the CSA, occurring as of November 14, 2016, is 
unlawful, and may subject the person to administrative, civil, and/or 
criminal sanctions.

Regulatory Matters

    Section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h), provides for a 
temporary scheduling action where such action is necessary to avoid an 
imminent hazard to the public safety. As provided in this subsection, 
the Attorney General may, by order, schedule a substance in schedule I 
on a temporary basis. Such an order may not be issued before the 
expiration of 30 days from (1) the publication of a notice in the 
Federal Register of the intention to issue such order and the grounds 
upon which such order is to be issued, and (2) the date that notice of 
the proposed temporary scheduling order is transmitted to the Assistant 
Secretary. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1).
    Inasmuch as section 201(h) of the CSA directs that temporary 
scheduling actions be issued by order and sets forth the procedures by 
which such orders are to be issued, the DEA believes that the notice 
and comment requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) at 5 
U.S.C. 553, do not apply to this temporary scheduling action. In the 
alternative, even assuming that this action might be subject to 5 
U.S.C. 553, the Administrator finds that there is good cause to forgo 
the notice and comment requirements of 5 U.S.C. 553, as any further 
delays in the process for issuance of temporary scheduling orders would 
be impracticable and contrary to the public interest in view of the 
manifest urgency to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety.
    Further, the DEA believes that this temporary scheduling action is 
not a ``rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 601(2), and, accordingly, is not 
subject to the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The 
requirements for the preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility 
analysis in 5 U.S.C. 603(a) are not applicable where, as here, the DEA 
is not required by the APA or any other law to publish a general notice 
of proposed rulemaking.
    Additionally, this action is not a significant regulatory action as 
defined by Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review), 
section 3(f), and, accordingly, this action has not been

[[Page 79393]]

reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
    This action will not have substantial direct effects on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 
13132 (Federalism) it is determined that this action does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
Federalism Assessment.
    As noted above, this action is an order, not a rule. Accordingly, 
the Congressional Review Act (CRA) is inapplicable, as it applies only 
to rules. However, if this were a rule, pursuant to the Congressional 
Review Act, ``any rule for which an agency for good cause finds that 
notice and public procedure thereon are impracticable, unnecessary, or 
contrary to the public interest, shall take effect at such time as the 
federal agency promulgating the rule determines.'' 5 U.S.C. 808(2). It 
is in the public interest to schedule this substance immediately 
because it poses a public health risk. This temporary scheduling action 
is taken pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(h), which is specifically designed 
to enable the DEA to act in an expeditious manner to avoid an imminent 
hazard to the public safety. 21 U.S.C. 811(h) exempts the temporary 
scheduling order from standard notice and comment rulemaking procedures 
to ensure that the process moves swiftly. For the same reasons that 
underlie 21 U.S.C. 811(h), that is, the DEA's need to move quickly to 
place this substance into schedule I because it poses an imminent 
hazard to the public safety and it would be contrary to the public 
interest to delay implementation of the temporary scheduling order. 
Therefore, this order shall take effect immediately upon its 
publication. The DEA has submitted a copy of this final order to both 
Houses of Congress and to the Comptroller General, although such filing 
is not required under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Congressional Review Act), 5 U.S.C. 801-808, 
because, as noted above, this action is an order, not a rule.

List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1308

    Administrative practice and procedure, Drug traffic control, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    For the reasons set out above, the DEA amends 21 CFR part 1308 as 
follows:

PART 1308--SCHEDULES OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

0
1. The authority citation for part 1308 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 21 U.S.C. 811, 812, 871(b), unless otherwise noted.


0
2. Amend Sec.  1308.11 by adding paragraph (h)(18) to read as follows:


Sec.  1308.11  Schedule I.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

(18) 3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-              (9547)
 methylbenzamide, its isomers, esters, ethers, salts and salts
 of isomers, esters and ethers (Other name: U-47700)..........
 

* * * * *

    Dated: November 7, 2016.
Chuck Rosenberg,
Acting Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2016-27357 Filed 11-10-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4410-09-P



                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 219 / Monday, November 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                        79389

                                           Certification Office (ACO), FAA; or the                 or lacking a principal inspector, the manager         DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
                                           Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization                of the local flight standards district office/
                                           Designation Authorization (ODA) that has                certificate holding district office.                  Drug Enforcement Administration
                                           been authorized by the Manager, Seattle                    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
                                           ACO, to approve the part.                               level of safety may be used for any repair,           21 CFR Part 1308
                                             (ii) The replacement MOV actuator must be             modification, or alteration required by this
                                           fully interchangeable with the part specified           AD if it is approved by the Boeing                    [Docket No. DEA–440]
                                           in Boeing Service Bulletin 777–28A0034,                 Commercial Airplanes ODA that has been
                                           Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015.                   authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to            Schedules of Controlled Substances:
                                           (j) Credit for Previous Actions                         make those findings. To be approved, the              Temporary Placement of U–47700 Into
                                                                                                   repair method, modification deviation, or             Schedule I
                                              (1) This paragraph provides credit for the
                                           requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, if            alteration deviation must meet the
                                                                                                                                                         AGENCY:  Drug Enforcement
                                           those actions were performed before the                 certification basis of the airplane and the
                                                                                                                                                         Administration, Department of Justice.
                                           effective date of this AD using Boeing Special          approval must specifically refer to this AD.
                                           Attention Service Bulletin 777–28–0061,                                                                       ACTION: Final order.
                                                                                                   (l) Related Information
                                           dated October 25, 2010; or Boeing Special
                                           Attention Service Bulletin 777–28–0061,                   (1) For more information about this AD,             SUMMARY:    The Administrator of the Drug
                                           Revision 1, dated January 26, 2012; as                  contact Brendan Shanley, Aerospace                    Enforcement Administration is issuing
                                           applicable. These documents are not                     Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch,               this final order to temporarily schedule
                                           incorporated by reference in this AD.                   ANM–130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft                       the synthetic opioid, 3,4-dichloro-N-[2-
                                              (2) This paragraph provides credit for the           Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,           (dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-
                                           requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD, if            Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone: 425–                methylbenzamide (also known as
                                           those actions were performed before April               917–6492; fax: 425–917–6590; email:                   U–47700), and its isomers, esters,
                                           25, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013–05–             brendan.shanley@faa.gov.                              ethers, salts and salts of isomers, esters
                                           03, Amendment 39–17375 (78 FR 17290,                      (2) Service information identified in this          and ethers, into schedule I pursuant to
                                           March 21, 2013), ‘‘AD 2013–05–03’’), using              AD that is not incorporated by reference is
                                           Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–28A0034,
                                                                                                                                                         the temporary scheduling provisions of
                                                                                                   available at the addresses specified in               the Controlled Substances Act. This
                                           dated August 2, 2007; or Boeing Alert Service           paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD.
                                           Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 1, dated                                                                       action is based on a finding by the
                                           May 20, 2010; except that the replacement of            (m) Material Incorporated by Reference                Administrator that the placement of
                                           MOV actuators of the left and right engine                 (1) The Director of the Federal Register           U–47700 into schedule I of the
                                           fuel spar valves must also include cap sealing                                                                Controlled Substances Act is necessary
                                                                                                   approved the incorporation by reference
                                           the bonding jumper, as described in Boeing                                                                    to avoid an imminent hazard to the
                                                                                                   (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                           Service Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 2,                                                                     public safety. As a result of this order,
                                           dated September 20, 2010; and provided that             paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                                                                                   part 51.                                              the regulatory controls and
                                           the replacement is an MOV actuator
                                           identified in paragraph (j)(2)(i) or (j)(2)(ii) of         (2) You must use this service information          administrative, civil, and criminal
                                           this AD. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–             as applicable to do the actions required by           sanctions applicable to schedule I
                                           28A0034, dated August 2, 2007, and Boeing               this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.           controlled substances will be imposed
                                           Alert Service Bulletin 777–28A0034,                        (i) Boeing Special Attention Service               on persons who handle (manufacture,
                                           Revision 1, dated May 20, 2010, are not                 Bulletin 777–28–0061, Revision 2, dated May           distribute, reverse distribute, import,
                                           incorporated by reference in this AD. Boeing            4, 2015.                                              export, engage in research, conduct
                                           Service Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 2,                  (ii) Boeing Service Bulletin 777–28A0034,          instructional activities or chemical
                                           dated September 20, 2010, is incorporated by            Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015.                 analysis, or possess), or propose to
                                           reference in AD 2013–05–03.                                (3) For Boeing service information                 handle,
                                              (i) An MOV actuator that has P/N                     identified in this AD, contact Boeing
                                           MA30A1001, MA30A1017, or MA20A2027.
                                                                                                                                                         U–47700.
                                                                                                   Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data &
                                              (ii) An MOV actuator that has a part                                                                       DATES: This final order is effective on
                                                                                                   Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC
                                           number other than P/N MA20A1001–1 and                   2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone              November 14, 2016.
                                           meets the criteria specified in paragraphs              206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                           (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD.                                                                          Michael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
                                                                                                   5680; Internet https://
                                              (3) This paragraph provides credit for the
                                           requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD, if
                                                                                                   www.myboeingfleet.com.                                Division, Drug Enforcement
                                           those actions were performed before the                    (4) You may view this service information          Administration; Mailing Address: 8701
                                           effective date of this AD using Boeing Service          at FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601          Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia
                                           Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 2, dated                 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For                      22152; Telephone: (202) 598–6812.
                                           September 20, 2010, which was incorporated              information on the availability of this
                                                                                                                                                         SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                           by reference in AD 2013–05–03.                          material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
                                                                                                      (5) You may view this service information          Legal Authority
                                           (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance                   that is incorporated by reference at the
                                           (AMOCs)                                                                                                         The Drug Enforcement
                                                                                                   National Archives and Records
                                              (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has               Administration (NARA). For information on
                                                                                                                                                         Administration (DEA) implements and
                                           the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD,             the availability of this material at NARA, call       enforces titles II and III of the
                                           if requested using the procedures found in 14           202–741–6030, or go to: http://                       Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention
                                           CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,             www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            and Control Act of 1970, as amended. 21
                                           send your request to your principal inspector           locations.html.                                       U.S.C. 801–971. Titles II and III are
                                           or local Flight Standards District Office, as                                                                 referred to as the ‘‘Controlled
                                           appropriate. If sending information directly               Issued in Renton, Washington, on October
                                                                                                                                                         Substances Act’’ and the ‘‘Controlled
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                                           to the manager of the ACO, send it to the               7, 2016.
                                                                                                                                                         Substances Import and Export Act,’’
                                           attention of the person identified in                   Michael Kaszycki,
                                           paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may
                                                                                                                                                         respectively, and are collectively
                                                                                                   Acting Manager, Transport Airplane                    referred to as the ‘‘Controlled
                                           be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-
                                                                                                   Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.          Substances Act’’ or the ‘‘CSA’’ for the
                                           Requests@faa.gov.
                                              (2) Before using any approved AMOC,                  [FR Doc. 2016–25491 Filed 11–10–16; 8:45 am]          purpose of this action. The DEA
                                           notify your appropriate principal inspector,            BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                publishes the implementing regulations


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                                           79390            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 219 / Monday, November 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                           for these statutes in title 21 of the Code              Administrator transmitted the notice of               medical supervision. The DEA’s
                                           of Federal Regulations (CFR), chapter II.               intent to place U–47700 into schedule I               updated three-factor analysis, and the
                                           The CSA and its implementing                            on a temporary basis to the Assistant                 Assistant Secretary’s April 28, 2016,
                                           regulations are designed to prevent,                    Secretary by letter dated April 18, 2016.             letter, are available in their entirety
                                           detect, and eliminate the diversion of                  The Assistant Secretary responded to                  under the tab ‘‘Supporting Documents’’
                                           controlled substances and listed                        this notice by letter dated April 28,                 of the public docket of this action at
                                           chemicals into the illicit market while                 2016, and advised that based on review                www.regulations.gov under FDMS
                                           ensuring an adequate supply is available                by the Food and Drug Administration                   Docket ID: DEA–2016–0016 (Docket
                                           for the legitimate medical, scientific,                 (FDA), there are currently no                         Number DEA–440).
                                           research, and industrial needs of the                   investigational new drug applications or
                                                                                                                                                         Factor 4. History and Current Pattern of
                                           United States. Controlled substances                    approved new drug applications for U–
                                                                                                                                                         Abuse
                                           have the potential for abuse and                        47700. The Assistant Secretary also
                                           dependence and are controlled to                        stated that the HHS has no objection to                  The recreational abuse of novel
                                           protect the public health and safety.                   the temporary placement of U–47700                    opioids continues to be a significant
                                              Under the CSA, every controlled                      into schedule I of the CSA. The DEA has               concern. These substances are
                                           substance is classified into one of five                taken into consideration the Assistant                distributed to users with often
                                           schedules based upon its potential for                  Secretary’s comments as required by 21                unpredictable outcomes. The novel
                                           abuse, its currently accepted medical                   U.S.C. 811(h)(4). U–47700 is not                      synthetic opioid U–47700 has recently
                                           use in treatment in the United States,                  currently listed in any schedule under                been encountered by law enforcement
                                           and the degree of dependence the drug                   the CSA, and no exemptions or                         and public health officials and the
                                           or other substance may cause. 21 U.S.C.                 approvals are in effect for U–47700                   adverse health effects and outcomes are
                                           812. The initial schedules of controlled                under section 505 of the FDCA, 21                     documented in the scientific literature.
                                           substances established by Congress are                  U.S.C. 355. The DEA has found that the                Self-reporting by users describes the
                                           found at 21 U.S.C. 812(c), and the                      control of U–47700 in schedule I on a                 effects of U–47700 to be similar to other
                                           current list of all scheduled substances                temporary basis is necessary to avoid an              opioids. The negative effects
                                           is published at 21 CFR part 1308.                       imminent hazard to the public safety,                 documented in the scientific literature
                                              Section 201 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811,               and as required by 21 U.S.C.                          are also consistent with other opioids.
                                           provides the Attorney General with the                  811(h)(1)(A), a notice of intent to                   The National Forensic Laboratory
                                           authority to temporarily place a                        temporarily schedule U–47700 was                      Information System (NFLIS) is a
                                           substance into schedule I of the CSA for                published in the Federal Register on                  national drug forensic laboratory
                                           two years without regard to the                         September 7, 2016. 81 FR 61636.                       reporting system that systematically
                                           requirements of 21 U.S.C. 811(b) if she                    To find that placing a substance                   collects results from drug chemistry
                                           finds that such action is necessary to                  temporarily into schedule I of the CSA                analyses conducted by participating
                                           avoid an imminent hazard to the public                  is necessary to avoid an imminent                     Federal, State, and local forensic
                                           safety. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). In addition,               hazard to the public safety, the                      laboratories across the country. The
                                           if proceedings to control a substance are               Administrator is required to consider                 DEA utilizes NFLIS to monitor for drug
                                           initiated under 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1), the                three of the eight factors set forth in               trends. The first laboratory submission
                                           Attorney General may extend the                         section 201(c) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.                  of U–47700 was recorded in October
                                           temporary scheduling for up to one                      811(c): The substance’s history and                   2015; a total of 88 records were reported
                                           year. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2).                              current pattern of abuse; the scope,                  from State and local forensic
                                              Where the necessary findings are                     duration and significance of abuse; and               laboratories between October 2015—
                                           made, a substance may be temporarily                    what, if any, risk there is to the public             September 2016 according to NFLIS
                                           scheduled if it is not listed in any other              health. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3).                          (query date: October 24, 2016).
                                           schedule under section 202 of the CSA,                  Consideration of these factors includes                  On October 1, 2014, the DEA
                                           21 U.S.C. 812, or if there is no                        actual abuse, diversion from legitimate               implemented STARLiMS (a web-based,
                                           exemption or approval in effect for the                 channels, and clandestine importation,                commercial laboratory information
                                           substance under section 505 of the                      manufacture, or distribution. 21 U.S.C.               management system) as its laboratory
                                           Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act                    811(h)(3).                                            drug evidence data system of record.
                                           (FDCA), 21 U.S.C. 355. 21 U.S.C.                           A substance meeting the statutory                  DEA laboratory data submitted after
                                           811(h)(1). The Attorney General has                     requirements for temporary scheduling                 September 30, 2014, are reposited in
                                           delegated her scheduling authority                      may only be placed into schedule I. 21                STARLiMS; data from STARLiMS were
                                           under 21 U.S.C. 811 to the                              U.S.C. 811(h)(1). Substances in schedule              queried on November 1, 2016.
                                           Administrator of the DEA. 28 CFR                        I are those that have a high potential for            STARLiMS registered 45 reports
                                           0.100.                                                  abuse, no currently accepted medical                  containing
                                                                                                   use in treatment in the United States,                U–47700 in 2016 from California,
                                           Background                                              and a lack of accepted safety for use                 Connecticut, Florida, Maryland,
                                             Section 201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21                      under medical supervision. 21 U.S.C.                  Montana, North Dakota, New Jersey,
                                           U.S.C. 811(h)(4), requires the                          812(b)(1). Available data and                         New York, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia,
                                           Administrator to notify the Secretary of                information for U–47700, summarized                   West Virginia, and the District of
                                           the Department of Health and Human                      below, indicate that this synthetic                   Columbia. Through information
                                           Services (HHS) of his intention to                      opioid has a high potential for abuse, no             collected from NFLIS, law enforcement
                                           temporarily place a substance into                      currently accepted medical use in                     reports, and email communications, the
                                           schedule I of the CSA.1 The                             treatment in the United States, and a                 DEA is aware of the identification of
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                                                                                                   lack of accepted safety for use under                 U–47700 from toxicology reports and
                                             1 As discussed in a memorandum of                                                                           submitted evidence to forensic
                                           understanding entered into by the Food and Drug         concurrence of NIDA. 50 FR 9518, Mar. 8, 1985.        laboratories in several states, including
                                           Administration (FDA) and the National Institute on      The Secretary of the HHS has delegated to the
                                           Drug Abuse (NIDA), the FDA acts as the lead agency      Assistant Secretary for Health of the HHS the
                                                                                                                                                         Arkansas, California, Colorado,
                                           within the HHS in carrying out the Secretary’s          authority to make domestic drug scheduling            Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa,
                                           scheduling responsibilities under the CSA, with the     recommendations. 58 FR 35460, July 1, 1993.           Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, New


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                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 219 / Monday, November 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                       79391

                                           Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,                        Additionally, U–47700 has been found                  public health risks attendant to the
                                           North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio,                     in counterfeit pills. Because abusers of              abuse of heroin and opioid analgesics
                                           Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania,                         U–47700 are likely to obtain this                     are well established and have resulted
                                           Texas, and Wisconsin. These                             substance through non-regulated                       in large numbers of drug treatment
                                           identifications occurred in 2015 and                    sources (i.e., on-line purchases or drug              admissions, emergency department
                                           2016.                                                   dealers), the identity, purity, and                   visits, and fatal overdoses.
                                             Evidence suggests that the pattern of                 quantity are uncertain and inconsistent,                 U–47700 has been associated with a
                                           abuse of U–47700 parallels that of                      thus posing significant adverse health                number of fatalities and non-fatal
                                           heroin, prescription opioid analgesics,                 risks to the end user. Individuals who                overdoses as detailed in the scientific
                                           and other novel opioids. Seizures of                    initiate (i.e., use a drug for the first time)        literature. The DEA has received
                                           U–47700 have been encountered in                        U–47700 abuse are likely to be at risk                information connecting U–47700 to at
                                           powder form and in counterfeit tablets                  of developing substance use disorder,                 least 46 confirmed overdose deaths,
                                           that mimic pharmaceutical opioids.                      overdose, and death similar to that of                occurring in 2015 and 2016 in New
                                           U–47700 has also been encountered in                    other opioid analgesics (e.g., fentanyl,              Hampshire (1), New York (31), North
                                           glassine bags and envelopes and knotted                 morphine, etc.).                                      Carolina (10), Ohio (1), Texas (2), and
                                           corners of plastic bags. These                             STARLiMS contains 45 reports in                    Wisconsin (1).
                                           clandestine forms of distribution                       which U–47700 was identified in drug
                                                                                                                                                         Finding of Necessity of Schedule I
                                           demonstrate the abuse of this substance                 exhibits submitted in 2016. A query of
                                                                                                                                                         Placement To Avoid Imminent Hazard
                                           as a replacement for heroin or other                    NFLIS returned 88 records of U–47700
                                                                                                                                                         to Public Safety
                                           opioids, either knowingly or                            being identified in exhibits submitted to
                                           unknowingly. Further, U–47700 has                       State and local forensic laboratories                    In accordance with 21 U.S.C.
                                                                                                   between October 2015—September                        811(h)(3), based on the data and
                                           been encountered as a single substance
                                                                                                   2016. The DEA is not aware of any                     information summarized above, the
                                           as well as in combination with other
                                                                                                   laboratory analyses of drug evidence                  continued uncontrolled manufacture,
                                           substances, including heroin, fentanyl,
                                                                                                   identifying U–47700 prior to 2015,                    distribution, importation, exportation,
                                           and furanyl fentanyl in drug exhibits.
                                                                                                   indicating that this synthetic opioid                 and abuse of U–47700 pose an
                                             The scientific literature and
                                                                                                   only recently became available as a                   imminent hazard to the public safety.
                                           information collected by DEA
                                                                                                   replacement for other opioids that are                The DEA is not aware of any currently
                                           demonstrate U–47700 is being abused
                                                                                                   commonly abused (i.e. oxycodone,                      accepted medical uses for this substance
                                           for its opioid properties. The
                                                                                                   heroin, fentanyl). U–47700 is available               in the United States. A substance
                                           distribution of U–47700 and the
                                                                                                   over the Internet and is marketed as a                meeting the statutory requirements for
                                           increased prevalence of abuse remain                                                                          temporary scheduling, 21 U.S.C.
                                           deeply concerning to the DEA.                           ‘‘research chemical.’’ The on-line sale
                                                                                                   and marketing of U–47700 are similar to               811(h)(1), may only be placed into
                                           Factor 5. Scope, Duration and                           other new psychoactive substances that                schedule I. Substances in schedule I are
                                           Significance of Abuse                                   have rapidly appeared on the                          those that have a high potential for
                                                                                                   recreational drug market and also                     abuse, no currently accepted medical
                                              The scientific literature and reports
                                                                                                   resulted in negative consequences for                 use in treatment in the United States,
                                           collected by the DEA demonstrate
                                                                                                   the user.                                             and a lack of accepted safety for use
                                           U–47700 is being abused for its opioid
                                                                                                                                                         under medical supervision. Available
                                           properties. This abuse of U–47700 has                   Factor 6. What, if Any, Risk There Is to              data and information for U–47700
                                           resulted in morbidity and mortality (see                the Public Health                                     indicate that this substance has a high
                                           updated DEA 3-Factor Analysis for full
                                                                                                      U–47700 exhibits pharmacological                   potential for abuse, no currently
                                           discussion). The DEA has received                       profiles similar to that of morphine and              accepted medical use in treatment in the
                                           reports for at least 46 confirmed                       other mu-opioid receptor agonists. Cases              United States, and a lack of accepted
                                           fatalities 2 associated with U–47700. The               of intoxication are reported in the                   safety for use under medical
                                           information on these deaths occurring                   literature with morbidity and mortality               supervision. As required by section
                                           in 2015 and 2016 was collected from                     associated with U–47700 use. The toxic                201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                           email communications and toxicology                     effects of U–47700 in humans are                      811(h)(4), the Administrator, through a
                                           and medical examiner reports and was                    demonstrated by overdoses and                         letter dated April 18, 2016, notified the
                                           reported from New Hampshire (1), New                    overdose fatalities associated with this              Assistant Secretary of the DEA’s
                                           York (31), North Carolina (10), Ohio (1),               substance, as reported in the scientific              intention to temporarily place this
                                           Texas (2), and Wisconsin (1). The                       literature. Abusers of U–47700 may not                substance into schedule I.
                                           scientific literature notes additional                  know the origin, identity, or purity of
                                           fatal overdoses connected to U–47700.                   this substance, thus posing significant               Conclusion
                                           The population likely to abuse U–47700                  adverse health risks when compared to                   In accordance with the provisions of
                                           appears to overlap with the populations                 abuse of pharmaceutical preparations of               section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                           abusing prescription opioid analgesics,                 opioid analgesics, such as morphine and               811(h), the Administrator considered
                                           other ‘‘designer opioids,’’ and heroin, as              oxycodone. Additionally, the potent                   available data and information, herein
                                           evidenced by drug use history                           opioid U–47700 may serve as a                         sets forth the grounds for his
                                           documented in U–47700 fatal overdose                    precursor to problematic opioid use and               determination that it is necessary to
                                           cases. This observation is further                      dependence.                                           temporarily schedule U–47700 into
                                           supported by U–47700 being sold on the                     Based on reports in the scientific                 schedule I of the CSA, and finds that
                                           illicit market in glassine bags, some of                literature and information received by                placement of this synthetic opioid into
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                                           which are marked with stamped logos,                    the DEA, the abuse of U–47700 leads to                schedule I of the CSA is necessary to
                                           imitating the sale of heroin.                           the same qualitative public health risks              avoid an imminent hazard to the public
                                              2 Due to a proofreading error, the number of
                                                                                                   as heroin, fentanyl and other opioid                  safety. Because the Administrator
                                           fatalities listed in the U–47700 NOI, which was 15,
                                                                                                   analgesic substances. As with any non-                hereby finds it necessary to temporarily
                                           is incorrect. The correct number, 46, has been          medically approved opioid, the health                 place this synthetic opioid into
                                           added to this Final Order.                              and safety risks for users are great. The             schedule I to avoid an imminent hazard


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                                           79392            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 219 / Monday, November 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                           to the public safety, this final order                  November 14, 2016 is unlawful and                       10. Quota. Only DEA registered
                                           temporarily scheduling U–47700 will be                  those in possession of any quantity of                manufacturers may manufacture U–
                                           effective on the date of publication in                 this substance may be subject to                      47700 in accordance with a quota
                                           the Federal Register, and will be in                    prosecution pursuant to the CSA.                      assigned pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 826 and
                                           effect for a period of two years, with a                   2. Disposal of stocks. Any person who              in accordance with 21 CFR part 1303 as
                                           possible extension of one additional                    does not desire or is not able to obtain              of November 14, 2016.
                                           year, pending completion of the regular                 a schedule I registration to handle U–                  11. Liability. Any activity involving
                                           (permanent) scheduling process. 21                      47700, must surrender all quantities of               U–47700 not authorized by, or in
                                           U.S.C. 811(h) (1) and (2).                              currently held U–47700.                               violation of the CSA, occurring as of
                                              The CSA sets forth specific criteria for                3. Security. U–47700 is subject to                 November 14, 2016, is unlawful, and
                                           scheduling a drug or other substance.                   schedule I security requirements and                  may subject the person to
                                           Permanent scheduling actions in                         must be handled and stored pursuant to                administrative, civil, and/or criminal
                                           accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(a) are                    21 U.S.C. 821, 823, 871(b), and in                    sanctions.
                                           subject to formal rulemaking procedures                 accordance with 21 CFR 1301.71–
                                                                                                   1301.93, as of November 14, 2016.                     Regulatory Matters
                                           done ‘‘on the record after opportunity
                                           for a hearing’’ conducted pursuant to                      4. Labeling and packaging. All labels,                Section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                           the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557.                 labeling, and packaging for commercial                811(h), provides for a temporary
                                           21 U.S.C. 811. The permanent                            containers of U–47700 must be in                      scheduling action where such action is
                                           scheduling process of formal                            compliance with 21 U.S.C. 825, 958(e),                necessary to avoid an imminent hazard
                                           rulemaking affords interested parties                   and be in accordance with 21 CFR part                 to the public safety. As provided in this
                                           with appropriate process and the                        1302. Current DEA registrants shall have              subsection, the Attorney General may,
                                           government with any additional                          30 calendar days from November 14,                    by order, schedule a substance in
                                           relevant information needed to make a                   2016, to comply with all labeling and                 schedule I on a temporary basis. Such
                                           determination. Final decisions that                     packaging requirements.                               an order may not be issued before the
                                           conclude the permanent scheduling                          5. Inventory. Every DEA registrant                 expiration of 30 days from (1) the
                                           process of formal rulemaking are subject                who possesses any quantity of U–47700                 publication of a notice in the Federal
                                           to judicial review. 21 U.S.C. 877.                      on the effective date of this order must              Register of the intention to issue such
                                           Temporary scheduling orders are not                     take an inventory of all stocks of this               order and the grounds upon which such
                                           subject to judicial review. 21 U.S.C.                   substance on hand, pursuant to 21                     order is to be issued, and (2) the date
                                           811(h)(6).                                              U.S.C. 827 and 958, and in accordance                 that notice of the proposed temporary
                                                                                                   with 21 CFR 1304.03, 1304.04, and                     scheduling order is transmitted to the
                                           Requirements for Handling                               1304.11. Current DEA registrants shall                Assistant Secretary. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1).
                                             Upon the effective date of this final                 have 30 calendar days from the effective                 Inasmuch as section 201(h) of the
                                           order, U–47700 will become subject to                   date of this order to be in compliance                CSA directs that temporary scheduling
                                           the regulatory controls and                             with all inventory requirements. After                actions be issued by order and sets forth
                                           administrative, civil, and criminal                     the initial inventory, every DEA                      the procedures by which such orders are
                                           sanctions applicable to the manufacture,                registrant must take an inventory of all              to be issued, the DEA believes that the
                                           distribution, reverse distribution,                     controlled substances (including U–                   notice and comment requirements of the
                                           importation, exportation, engagement in                 47700) on hand on a biennial basis,                   Administrative Procedure Act (APA) at
                                           research, and conduct of instructional                  pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, and                5 U.S.C. 553, do not apply to this
                                           activities or chemical analysis with, and               in accordance with 21 CFR 1304.03,                    temporary scheduling action. In the
                                           possession of schedule I controlled                     1304.04, and 1304.11.                                 alternative, even assuming that this
                                           substances including the following:                        6. Records. All DEA registrants must               action might be subject to 5 U.S.C. 553,
                                             1. Registration. Any person who                       maintain records with respect to U–                   the Administrator finds that there is
                                           handles (manufactures, distributes,                     47700 pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and                   good cause to forgo the notice and
                                           reverse distributes, imports, exports,                  958, and in accordance with 21 CFR                    comment requirements of 5 U.S.C. 553,
                                           engages in research, or conducts                        parts 1304, and 1312, 1317 and                        as any further delays in the process for
                                           instructional activities or chemical                    § 1307.11. Current DEA registrants shall              issuance of temporary scheduling orders
                                           analysis with, or possesses), or who                    have 30 calendar days from the effective              would be impracticable and contrary to
                                           desires to handle, U–47700 must be                      date of this order to be in compliance                the public interest in view of the
                                           registered with the DEA to conduct such                 with all recordkeeping requirements.                  manifest urgency to avoid an imminent
                                           activities pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 822,                      7. Reports. All DEA registrants who                hazard to the public safety.
                                           823, 957, and 958 and in accordance                     manufacture or distribute U–47700 must                   Further, the DEA believes that this
                                           with 21 CFR parts 1301 and 1312, as of                  submit reports pursuant to 21 U.S.C.                  temporary scheduling action is not a
                                           November 14, 2016. Any person who                       827 and in accordance with 21 CFR                     ‘‘rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 601(2),
                                           currently handles U–47700, and is not                   parts 1304, and 1312 as of November 14,               and, accordingly, is not subject to the
                                           registered with the DEA, must submit an                 2016.                                                 requirements of the Regulatory
                                           application for registration and may not                   8. Order Forms. All DEA registrants                Flexibility Act. The requirements for the
                                           continue to handle U–47700 as of                        who distribute U–47700 must comply                    preparation of an initial regulatory
                                           November 14, 2016, unless the DEA has                   with order form requirements pursuant                 flexibility analysis in 5 U.S.C. 603(a) are
                                           approved that application for                           to 21 U.S.C. 828 and in accordance with               not applicable where, as here, the DEA
                                           registration pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 822,                 21 CFR part 1305 as of November 14,                   is not required by the APA or any other
                                           823, 957, 958, and in accordance with                   2016.                                                 law to publish a general notice of
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                                           21 CFR parts 1301 and 1312. Retail sales                   9. Importation and Exportation. All                proposed rulemaking.
                                           of schedule I controlled substances to                  importation and exportation of U–47700                   Additionally, this action is not a
                                           the general public are not allowed under                must be in compliance with 21 U.S.C.                  significant regulatory action as defined
                                           the CSA. Possession of any quantity of                  952, 953, 957, 958, and in accordance                 by Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory
                                           this substance in a manner not                          with 21 CFR part 1312 as of November                  Planning and Review), section 3(f), and,
                                           authorized by the CSA on or after                       14, 2016.                                             accordingly, this action has not been


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                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 219 / Monday, November 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                    79393

                                           reviewed by the Office of Management                    PART 1308—SCHEDULES OF                           Click on Open Docket Folder on the line
                                           and Budget (OMB).                                       CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES                            associated with this deviation.
                                              This action will not have substantial                                                                 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If
                                                                                                   ■ 1. The authority citation for part 1308        you have questions on this temporary
                                           direct effects on the States, on the
                                                                                                   continues to read as follows:                    deviation, call or email Mr. Hal R. Pitts,
                                           relationship between the national
                                           government and the States, or on the                       Authority: 21 U.S.C. 811, 812, 871(b),        Bridge Administration Branch Fifth
                                           distribution of power and                               unless otherwise noted.                          District, Coast Guard, telephone 757–
                                           responsibilities among the various                      ■ 2. Amend § 1308.11 by adding                   398–6222, email Hal.R.Pitts@uscg.mil.
                                           levels of government. Therefore, in                     paragraph (h)(18) to read as follows:            SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The
                                           accordance with Executive Order 13132                                                                    County of Cape May, NJ, that owns and
                                           (Federalism) it is determined that this                 § 1308.11 Schedule I.                            operates the Stone Harbor Boulevard
                                           action does not have sufficient                         *      *      *     *      *                     (CR657) Bridge across the Great
                                           federalism implications to warrant the                     (h) * * *                                     Channel, mile 102.0, New Jersey
                                           preparation of a Federalism Assessment.                 (18)              3,4-Dichloro-N-[2-             Intracoastal Waterway, at Stone Harbor,
                                                                                                      (dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-                 NJ, has requested a temporary deviation
                                              As noted above, this action is an                       methylbenzamide, its isomers,
                                           order, not a rule. Accordingly, the                                                                      from the current operating regulations to
                                                                                                      esters, ethers, salts and salts of            avoid bridge failure and perform
                                           Congressional Review Act (CRA) is                          isomers, esters and ethers
                                                                                                                                                    emergency repairs to the bridge, due to
                                           inapplicable, as it applies only to rules.                 (Other name: U–47700) .............    (9547)
                                                                                                                                                    a serious crack in one of two main
                                           However, if this were a rule, pursuant                  *      *      *     *      *                     bridge girders, causing the bridge to be
                                           to the Congressional Review Act, ‘‘any
                                                                                                      Dated: November 7, 2016.                      unsafe for vehicular traffic and
                                           rule for which an agency for good cause
                                                                                                   Chuck Rosenberg,                                 movement of the bascule spans. The
                                           finds that notice and public procedure
                                                                                                   Acting Administrator.                            bridge is a bascule drawbridge and has
                                           thereon are impracticable, unnecessary,
                                                                                                                                                    a vertical clearance in the closed
                                           or contrary to the public interest, shall               [FR Doc. 2016–27357 Filed 11–10–16; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                                                                    position of 10 feet above mean high
                                           take effect at such time as the federal                 BILLING CODE 4410–09–P
                                                                                                                                                    water.
                                           agency promulgating the rule
                                                                                                                                                       The current operating schedule is set
                                           determines.’’ 5 U.S.C. 808(2). It is in the
                                                                                                                                                    out in 33 CFR 117.733(h). Under this
                                           public interest to schedule this                        DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND                           temporary deviation, the bridge will
                                           substance immediately because it poses                  SECURITY                                         remain in the closed-to-navigation
                                           a public health risk. This temporary
                                                                                                                                                    position until 4 p.m. on December 2,
                                           scheduling action is taken pursuant to                  Coast Guard
                                                                                                                                                    2016.
                                           21 U.S.C. 811(h), which is specifically
                                                                                                   33 CFR Part 117                                     The Great Channel, New Jersey
                                           designed to enable the DEA to act in an
                                                                                                                                                    Intracoastal Waterway is used by a
                                           expeditious manner to avoid an                          [Docket No. USCG–2016–1008]                      variety of vessels including small public
                                           imminent hazard to the public safety. 21                                                                 vessels, small commercial vessels, tug
                                           U.S.C. 811(h) exempts the temporary                     Drawbridge Operation Regulation;                 and barge traffic, and recreational
                                           scheduling order from standard notice                   Great Channel, New Jersey                        vessels. The Coast Guard has carefully
                                           and comment rulemaking procedures to                    Intracoastal Waterway, Stone Harbor,             considered the nature and volume of
                                           ensure that the process moves swiftly.                  NJ                                               vessel traffic on the waterway in
                                           For the same reasons that underlie 21                                                                    publishing this temporary deviation.
                                           U.S.C. 811(h), that is, the DEA’s need to               AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.
                                                                                                                                                       Vessels able to safely pass through the
                                           move quickly to place this substance                    ACTION: Notice of deviation from
                                                                                                                                                    bridge in the closed position may do so
                                           into schedule I because it poses an                     drawbridge regulation.
                                                                                                                                                    at any time. The bridge will not be able
                                           imminent hazard to the public safety                                                                     to open for emergencies and there is no
                                                                                                   SUMMARY: The Coast Guard has issued a
                                           and it would be contrary to the public                                                                   immediate alternate route for vessels to
                                           interest to delay implementation of the                 temporary deviation from the operating
                                                                                                   schedule that governs the Stone Harbor           pass. The Coast Guard will also inform
                                           temporary scheduling order. Therefore,                                                                   the users of the waterways through our
                                           this order shall take effect immediately                Boulevard (CR657) Bridge across the
                                                                                                   Great Channel, mile 102.0, New Jersey            Local and Broadcast Notices to Mariners
                                           upon its publication. The DEA has
                                                                                                   Intracoastal Waterway, at Stone Harbor, of the change in operating schedule for
                                           submitted a copy of this final order to                                                                  the bridge so that vessel operators can
                                                                                                   NJ. This deviation is necessary to avoid
                                           both Houses of Congress and to the                                                                       arrange their transit to minimize any
                                                                                                   bridge failure and perform emergency
                                           Comptroller General, although such
                                                                                                   bridge repairs. This deviation allows the impact caused by the temporary
                                           filing is not required under the Small                                                                   deviation.
                                                                                                   bridge to remain in the closed-to-
                                           Business Regulatory Enforcement                                                                             In accordance with 33 CFR 117.35(e),
                                                                                                   navigation position.
                                           Fairness Act of 1996 (Congressional                                                                      the drawbridge must return to its regular
                                           Review Act), 5 U.S.C. 801–808, because,                 DATES: This deviation is effective
                                                                                                   without actual notice from November              operating schedule immediately at the
                                           as noted above, this action is an order,
                                           not a rule.                                             14, 2016 through 4 p.m. on December 2, end of the effective period of this
                                                                                                   2016. For the purposes of enforcement,           temporary deviation. This deviation
                                           List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1308                    actual notice will be used from                  from the operating regulations is
                                                                                                   November 8, 2016, until November 14,             authorized under 33 CFR 117.35.
                                             Administrative practice and
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                                                                                                   2016.                                               Dated: November 8, 2016.
                                           procedure, Drug traffic control,                                                                         Hal R. Pitts,
                                                                                                   ADDRESSES: The docket for this
                                           Reporting and recordkeeping
                                                                                                   deviation, [USCG–2016–1008] is                   Bridge Program Manager, Fifth Coast Guard
                                           requirements.
                                                                                                   available at http://www.regulations.gov. District.
                                             For the reasons set out above, the DEA                Type the docket number in the                    [FR Doc. 2016–27281 Filed 11–10–16; 8:45 am]
                                           amends 21 CFR part 1308 as follows:                     ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH’’.             BILLING CODE 9110–04–P




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Document Created: 2018-10-24 10:48:59
Document Modified: 2018-10-24 10:48:59
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal order.
DatesThis final order is effective on November 14, 2016.
ContactMichael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
FR Citation81 FR 79389 
CFR AssociatedAdministrative Practice and Procedure; Drug Traffic Control and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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