82_FR_8610 82 FR 8593 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 Into Schedule I

82 FR 8593 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 Into Schedule I

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Drug Enforcement Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 17 (January 27, 2017)

Page Range8593-8598
FR Document2017-01514

The Drug Enforcement Administration proposes placing N-(1- amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3- carboxamide (AB-CHMINACA), N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1- pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PINACA) and [1-(5-fluoropentyl)- 1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-yl)methanone (THJ-2201), including their salts, isomers, and salts of isomers whenever the existence of such salts, isomers, and salts of isomers is possible, into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. This proposed scheduling action is pursuant to the Controlled Substances Act which requires that such actions be made on the record after opportunity for a hearing through formal rulemaking. If finalized, this action would continue to impose the regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable to schedule I controlled substances on persons who handle (manufacture, distribute, import, export, engage in research, conduct instructional activities or chemical analysis, or possess), or propose to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 17 (Friday, January 27, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 17 (Friday, January 27, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 8593-8598]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-01514]


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Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 8593]]


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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Drug Enforcement Administration

21 CFR Part 1308

[Docket No. DEA-402]


Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of AB-CHMINACA, AB-
PINACA and THJ-2201 Into Schedule I

AGENCY: Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The Drug Enforcement Administration proposes placing N-(1-
amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-
carboxamide (AB-CHMINACA), N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-
pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PINACA) and [1-(5-fluoropentyl)-
1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-yl)methanone (THJ-2201), including their 
salts, isomers, and salts of isomers whenever the existence of such 
salts, isomers, and salts of isomers is possible, into schedule I of 
the Controlled Substances Act. This proposed scheduling action is 
pursuant to the Controlled Substances Act which requires that such 
actions be made on the record after opportunity for a hearing through 
formal rulemaking. If finalized, this action would continue to impose 
the regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal 
sanctions applicable to schedule I controlled substances on persons who 
handle (manufacture, distribute, import, export, engage in research, 
conduct instructional activities or chemical analysis, or possess), or 
propose to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201.

DATES: Interested persons may file written comments on this proposal in 
accordance with 21 CFR 1308.43(g). Comments must be submitted 
electronically or postmarked on or before February 27, 2017. Commenters 
should be aware that the electronic Federal Docket Management System 
will not accept comments after 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the last day 
of the comment period.
    Interested persons, defined at 21 CFR 1300.01 as those ``adversely 
affected or aggrieved by any rule or proposed rule issuable pursuant to 
section 201 of the Act (21 U.S.C. 811),'' may file a request for 
hearing or waiver of hearing pursuant to 21 CFR 1308.44 and in 
accordance with 21 CFR 1316.45 and/or 1316.47, as applicable. Requests 
for hearing and waivers of an opportunity for a hearing or to 
participate in a hearing must be received on or before February 27, 
2017.

ADDRESSES: To ensure proper handling of comments, please reference 
``Docket No. DEA-402'' on all electronic and written correspondence, 
including any attachments.
     Electronic comments: The Drug Enforcement Administration 
encourages that all comments be submitted electronically through the 
Federal eRulemaking Portal which provides the ability to type short 
comments directly into the comment field on the Web page or attach a 
file for lengthier comments. Please go to http://www.regulations.gov 
and follow the online instructions at that site for submitting 
comments. Upon completion of your submission you will receive a Comment 
Tracking Number for your comment. Please be aware that submitted 
comments are not instantaneously available for public view on 
Regulations.gov. If you have received a Comment Tracking Number, your 
comment has been successfully submitted and there is no need to 
resubmit the same comment.
     Paper comments: Paper comments that duplicate the 
electronic submission are not necessary. Should you wish to mail a 
paper comment, in lieu of an electronic comment, it should be sent via 
regular or express mail to: Drug Enforcement Administration, Attn: DEA 
Federal Register Representative/DRW, 8701 Morrissette Drive, 
Springfield, Virginia 22152.
     Hearing requests: All requests for a hearing and waivers 
of participation must be sent to: Drug Enforcement Administration, 
Attn: Administrator, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 
22152. All requests for hearing and waivers of participation should be 
sent to: (1) Drug Enforcement Administration, Attn: Hearing Clerk/LJ, 
8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 22152; and (2) Drug 
Enforcement Administration, Attn: DEA Federal Register Representative/
DRW, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 22152.

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: 

Posting of Public Comments

    Please note that all comments received in response to this docket 
are considered part of the public record. They will, unless reasonable 
cause is given, be made available by the Drug Enforcement 
Administration (DEA) for public inspection online at http://www.regulations.gov. Such information includes personal identifying 
information (such as your name, address, etc.) voluntarily submitted by 
the commenter. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) applies to all 
comments received. If you want to submit personal identifying 
information (such as your name, address, etc.) as part of your comment, 
but do not want it to be made publicly available, you must include the 
phrase ``PERSONAL IDENTIFYING INFORMATION'' in the first paragraph of 
your comment. You must also place all of the personal identifying 
information you do not want made publicly available in the first 
paragraph of your comment and identify what information you want 
redacted.
    If you want to submit confidential business information as part of 
your comment, but do not want it to be made publicly available, you 
must include the phrase ``CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS INFORMATION'' in the 
first paragraph of your comment. You must also prominently identify the 
confidential business information to be redacted within the comment.
    Comments containing personal identifying information or 
confidential business information identified as directed above will be 
made publicly available in redacted form. If a comment has so much 
confidential business information that it cannot be effectively 
redacted, all or part of that comment may not be made publicly 
available. Comments posted to http://www.regulations.gov may include 
any personal identifying information (such

[[Page 8594]]

as name, address, and phone number) included in the text of your 
electronic submission that is not identified as directed above as 
confidential.
    An electronic copy of this document and supplemental information to 
this proposed rule are available at http://www.regulations.gov for easy 
reference.

Request for Hearing, or Waiver of Participation in Hearing

    Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a), this action is a formal rulemaking 
``on the record after opportunity for a hearing.'' Such proceedings are 
conducted pursuant to the provisions of the Administrative Procedure 
Act (APA), 5 U.S.C. 551-559. 21 CFR 1308.41-1308.45; 21 CFR part 1316, 
subpart D. In accordance with 21 CFR 1308.44(a)-(c), requests for 
hearing, notices of appearance, and waivers of an opportunity for a 
hearing or to participate in a hearing may be submitted only by 
interested persons, defined as those ``adversely affected or aggrieved 
by any rule or proposed rule issuable pursuant to section 201 of the 
Act (21 U.S.C. 811).'' 21 CFR 1300.01. Such requests or notices must 
conform to the requirements of 21 CFR 1308.44(a) or (b), and 1316.47 or 
1316.48, as applicable, and include a statement of interest of the 
person in the proceeding and the objections or issues, if any, 
concerning which the person desires to be heard. Any waiver must 
conform to the requirements of 21 CFR 1308.44(c) and may include a 
written statement regarding the interested person's position on the 
matters of fact and law involved in any hearing.
    Please note that pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a), the purpose and 
subject matter of a hearing held in relation to this rulemaking is 
restricted to: ``(A) find[ing] that such drug or other substance has a 
potential for abuse, and (B) mak[ing] with respect to such drug or 
other substance the findings prescribed by subsection (b) of section 
812 of this title for the schedule in which such drug is to be placed * 
* *.'' All requests for hearing and waivers of participation must be 
sent to the DEA using the address information provided above.

Legal Authority

    The DEA implements and enforces Titles II and III of the 
Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, as 
amended. 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. 21 U.S.C. 801-971. The DEA publishes the implementing 
regulations 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 providing 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, controlled substances are classified into one of 
five schedules based upon their potential for abuse, their currently 
accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and the degree 
of dependence the 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 scheduled substances is 
published at 21 CFR part 1308.
    Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1), the Attorney General may, by rule, 
``add to such a schedule or transfer between such schedules any drug or 
other substance if he (A) finds that such drug or other substance has a 
potential for abuse, and (B) makes with respect to such drug or other 
substance the findings prescribed by subsection (b) of section 812 of 
this title for the schedule in which such drug is to be placed * * *.'' 
The Attorney General has delegated scheduling authority under 21 U.S.C. 
811 to the Administrator of the DEA. 28 CFR 0.100.
    The CSA provides that proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or 
repeal of the scheduling of any drug or other substance may be 
initiated by the Attorney General (1) on her own motion; (2) at the 
request of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services 
(HHS); \1\ or (3) on the petition of any interested party. 21 U.S.C. 
811(a). This proposed action is supported by a recommendation from the 
Assistant Secretary of the HHS and an evaluation of all other relevant 
data by the DEA. If finalized, this action would continue to impose the 
regulatory controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions 
of schedule I controlled substances on any person who handles or 
proposes to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201.
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    \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.
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Background

    On January 30, 2015, the DEA published a final order in the Federal 
Register amending 21 CFR 1308.11(h) to temporarily place the three 
synthetic cannabinoids [1-(5-Fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-
1-yl)methanone (THJ-2201); N-1-Amino-3-methyl-1-oxo-2-butanyl]-1-
pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PINACA); and N-[1-Amino-3-methyl-
1-oxo-2-butanyl]-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-
CHMINACA) into schedule I of the CSA pursuant to the temporary 
scheduling provisions of 21 U.S.C. 811(h). 80 FR 5042. That final 
order, which became effective on the date of publication, was based on 
findings by the Administrator of the DEA that the temporary scheduling 
of these three synthetic cannabinoids was necessary to avoid an 
imminent hazard to the public safety pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). 
At the time the final order took effect, section 201(h)(2) of the CSA, 
21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2), required that the temporary scheduling of a 
substance expire at the end of two years from the date of the 
scheduling order, and it provided that, during the pendency of 
proceedings under 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1) with respect to the substance, 
temporary scheduling of that substance could be extended for up to 1 
year. Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2), the temporary scheduling of THJ-
2201, AB-PINACA, and AB-CHMINACA expires on January 29, 2017, unless 
extended. An extension of the temporary order is being ordered by the 
DEA Administrator in a separate action.
    The Administrator of the DEA, on his own motion pursuant to 21 
U.S.C. 811(a), has initiated proceedings under 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1) to 
permanently schedule THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA. The DEA has 
gathered and reviewed the available information regarding the 
pharmacology, chemistry, trafficking, actual abuse, pattern of abuse, 
and the relative potential for abuse for these three synthetic 
cannabinoids. In accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(b) and (c), on August 
26, 2015, the DEA submitted a request to the HHS to provide the DEA 
with a scientific and medical evaluation of available information and a 
scheduling recommendation for THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA. Upon 
evaluating the scientific and medical evidence, on November 14, 2016, 
the

[[Page 8595]]

HHS submitted to the Administrator of the DEA its three scientific and 
medical evaluations for these substances. Upon receipt of the 
scientific and medical evaluations and scheduling recommendations from 
the HHS, the DEA reviewed the documents and all other relevant data, 
and conducted its own eight-factor analysis of the abuse potential of 
THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 
811(c). The DEA has published a temporary order for the extension of 
the placement of THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA into schedule I 
elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register.

Proposed Determination To Schedule THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA

    Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1), proceedings to add a drug or 
substance to those controlled under the CSA may be initiated by the 
Attorney General, or her delegate, the DEA Administrator. On August 26, 
2015, the DEA requested scientific and medical evaluations and 
scheduling recommendations from the Assistant Secretary of Health for 
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for THJ-2201, 
AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(b). Upon receipt of 
the scientific and medical evaluations and scheduling recommendations 
from the HHS dated November 14, 2016, the DEA reviewed the documents 
and all other relevant data and conducted its own eight-factor analysis 
of the abuse potential of THJ-2201, AB-PINACA and AB-CHMINACA pursuant 
to 21 U.S.C. 811(c). Included below is a brief summary of each factor 
as analyzed by the HHS and the DEA, and as considered by the DEA in its 
proposed scheduling action. Please note that both the DEA 8-Factor and 
HHS 8-Factor analyses and the Assistant Secretary's November 14, 2016, 
letter, are available in their entirety under the tab ``Supporting 
Documents'' of the public docket of this action at http://www.regulations.gov, under Docket Number ``DEA-402.''
    1. The Drug's Actual or Relative Potential for Abuse: The term 
``abuse'' is not defined in the CSA. However, the legislative history 
of the CSA suggests that the DEA consider the following criteria in 
determining whether a particular drug or substance has a potential for 
abuse: \2\
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    \2\ Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, 
H.R. Rep. No. 91-1444, 91st Cong., Sess. 1 (1970); reprinted in 1970 
U.S.C.C.A.N. 4566, 4603.
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    (a) There is evidence that individuals are taking the drug or drugs 
containing such a substance in amounts sufficient to create a hazard to 
their health or to the safety of other individuals or of the community; 
or
    (b) There is significant diversion of the drug or drugs containing 
such a substance from legitimate drug channels; or
    (c) Individuals are taking the drug or drugs containing such a 
substance on their own initiative rather than on the basis of medical 
advice from a practitioner licensed by law to administer such drugs in 
the course of his professional practice; or
    (d) The drug or drugs containing such a substance are new drugs so 
related in their action to a drug or drugs already listed as having a 
potential for abuse to make it likely that the drug will have the same 
potentiality for abuse as such drugs, thus making it reasonable to 
assume that there may be significant diversions from legitimate 
channels, significant use contrary to or without medical advice, or 
that it has a substantial capability of creating hazards to the health 
of the user or to the safety of the community.
    Through epidemiological and case report data, HHS has demonstrated 
that the ingestion of AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and/or THJ-2201 in 
sufficient amounts is creating a hazard to the health and safety of 
both the individual users and others within the community. Adverse 
effects observed following the ingestion of synthetic cannabinoids 
(SCs), including AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201, include nausea 
and vomiting, shortness of breath or depressed breathing, hypertension, 
tachycardia, chest pain, muscle twitching, acute renal failure, 
anxiety, agitation, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and cognitive 
impairment. The HHS also stated that SCs like AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA 
and THJ-2201 are easily accessible and difficult to detect in standard 
urine drug screens, which contributes to their popularity and high 
rates of abuse.
    The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) reported 
7,779 calls to poison centers about exposures to SCs from January 1, 
2015 through December 31, 2015. This number is significantly higher 
than the number of calls in all of 2014 (3,682), or all of 2013 
(2,668). In 2015, there was a notable increase in calls during April 
(1,512) and May (1,205), falling to a stable, but higher baseline for 
the rest of the year: A seasonal pattern not seen in previous years. In 
2016, the numbers of exposure calls (2,695) have dropped again, 
mirroring those of 2013 (2,668). Although the AAPCC does not identify 
specific cannabinoid substances, their data do support the high 
prevalence of toxic exposures to SCs in general. In 2015, at least 15 
calls to Poison Centers regarding SCs exposures were associated with 
deaths, which is triple the 5 deaths associated with such calls for all 
of 2014.
    The HHS stated that there are no FDA-approved drug products 
containing AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 in the United States and 
there appear to be no legitimate sources for these substances as 
marketed drugs. Therefore, this criterion for assessing the abuse 
potential of these SCs is not applicable. According to the HHS, because 
AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 are not approved for medical use 
and are not formulated or available for clinical use, the human use of 
these substances is assumed to be on an individual's own initiative, 
rather than on the basis of medical advice from a practitioner licensed 
by law to administer drugs. Further, published scientific and medical 
literature, and reports from AAPCC and law enforcement, indicate that 
individuals are taking these SCs on their own initiative, rather than 
on the basis of medical advice of a licensed practitioner. As noted by 
the HHS, pharmacological studies sponsored by the National Institute on 
Drug Abuse (NIDA) have demonstrated that AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and 
THJ-2201 are similar to other schedule I SCs. All three of these 
substances, similar to schedule I SCs, display high affinity binding 
and potent agonist functional activity at the cannabinoid (CB1) 
receptor, while drug discrimination studies have demonstrated the 
ability of all three substances to substitute for [Delta]\9\-
tetrahydrocannabinol ([Delta]\9\-THC) (see factor 2). The HHS stated in 
their review that AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 are markedly more 
potent at CB1 receptors than the natural phytocannabinoids 
(cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant, i.e. 
[Delta]\9\-THC).
    2. Scientific Evidence of the Drug's Pharmacological Effects, if 
Known: In vitro receptor binding and functional assays were conducted 
with AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201. In addition, drug 
discrimination assays using Sprague Dawley rats were performed to 
identify drugs with similar subjective effects to [Delta]\9\-THC. The 
tetrad assay was also conducted for AB-CHMINACA and AB-PINACA. These 
results indicate that AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201, similar to 
other schedule I SCs, bind to CB1

[[Page 8596]]

receptors with high affinity and act as agonists at CB1 receptors.
    Based on results from the receptor binding (Ki), CB1 functional 
assay, and drug discrimination studies, the HHS concluded that AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 act as full psychoactive cannabinoid 
agonists with no antagonist activity, and that these three substances 
are more potent than [Delta]\9\-THC (schedule I), and are similar in 
activity to JWH-018, AM2201, ADB-PINACA, and AB-FUBINACA (schedule I). 
As stated by the HHS, these data indicate that AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA 
and THJ-2201 are more potent at producing behavioral pharmacological 
effects that are recognizable as those produced by the schedule I 
cannabinoid [Delta]\9\-THC.
    3. The State of Current Scientific Knowledge Regarding the Drug or 
Other Substance: The DEA is not aware of any currently accepted medical 
uses for AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201. A letter dated September 
17, 2014 was sent from the DEA Deputy Administrator to the Acting 
Assistant Secretary for Health, of the Department for Health and Human 
Services as notification of intent to temporarily place these three 
substances in schedule I and solicited comments, including whether an 
exemption or approval was in effect for the substances in question 
under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. The Acting Assistant 
Secretary of Health responded that there were no current INDs or NDAs 
for these synthetic cannabinoids in a letter to the DEA Deputy 
Administrator dated September 30, 2014. The HHS in its scientific and 
medical evaluation and scheduling recommendation dated November 14, 
2016 reiterated that these three SCs are not the subjects of any 
approved new drug applications (NDAs) or investigational new drug 
applications (INDs); are not currently marketed as approved drug 
products; and have no accepted medical uses in the United States.
    4. Its History and Current Pattern of Abuse: Synthetic cannabinoids 
intended for illicit use were first encountered in the United States in 
November 2008 during seizure and analysis by the United States Customs 
and Border Protection (CBP) of a shipment of ``Spice'' in Dayton, Ohio. 
The popularity of these cannabinoids and their associated products has 
increased since January 2010 in the United States as evidenced by the 
increasing number of seizures and public health and media reports. The 
HHS noted that SC abuse has been repeatedly noted in athletes, military 
personnel, employees who undergo frequent drug testing, and other 
individuals seeking intoxication while hoping to evade detection. AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 are another generation of SCs 
encountered by law enforcement. These substances and their products are 
commonly marketed as ``legal highs'' with a disclaimer of ``not for 
human consumption.'' As detailed in reports, law enforcement and public 
health officials are encountering the abuse of these substances.
    Most users of SCs abuse these substances by smoking the product 
following application to plant material. Recently, law enforcement has 
also been encountering new variations of SCs in liquid form. The 
liquids contain one or more SC(s), including AB-CHMINACA and AB-PINACA, 
as well as previously controlled substances including AB-FUBINACA and 
XLR11. Users have been identified as applying the liquid to hookahs (an 
instrument for vaporizing and smoking a given material whereby the 
smoke or vapor passes through a water basin prior to inhalation), 
vaporizers (also known as ``vaping'' or an ``e-cigarette,'' which 
allows the user to administer a liquid to be aerosolized and then 
inhaled), and hookah pens (a type of vaporizer, often much smaller and 
intended for increased discretion while smoking). As reported by users, 
specifically adolescents, this method of vaporizing and inhaling SCs is 
viewed as being safer than traditional smoking (blunt, pipe, cigarette, 
etc.). In a recent study, 91% of SC users reported inhalation of the 
product via a cigarette or blunt, 27% of the respondents also reported 
using methods that included vaporization, water pipe, bong, or hookah 
as a delivery method.
    5. The Scope, Duration, and Significance of Abuse: AB-CHMINACA, AB-
PINACA and THJ-2201 are SCs that have pharmacological effects similar 
to the schedule I hallucinogen [Delta]\9\-THC. Poison control centers 
continue to report toxic exposures to SCs and their associated 
products. These substances remain a threat to both the short- and long-
term public health and safety. THJ-2201 was first reported in September 
2013 while AB-CHMINACA was first reported in February of 2014. AB-
PINACA was encountered on the illicit drug market as early as March 
2013. From December 2013 through May 2015, CBP reported select 
encounters of these substances with most shipments originating in China 
and intended for destinations within the United States: AB-CHMINACA-50 
seizures involving 56.29 kg; AB-PINACA-11 seizures involving 15 kg; 
THJ-2201-6 seizures involving 5.5 kg. The DEA has reported multiple 
encounters of large quantities of AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 
that have been confirmed by forensic laboratories.
    6. What, if Any, Risk There is to the Public Health: Clinical 
symptoms as reported from overdoses with AB-CHMINACA and AB-PINACA in 
particular have included excited delirium, seizure, coma, agitation, 
myocardial infarction, convulsions, difficulty breathing, and an 
altered state of consciousness. The HHS reported that despite the 
increasing public recognition of the harms of SCs, multiple groups, 
including athletes, military personnel, employees who undergo frequent 
drug testing, and individuals seeking intoxication, continue to abuse 
these substances while hoping to evade detection.
    Since abusers obtain these drugs through unknown sources, the 
purity of these drugs is uncertain, thus posing significant adverse 
health risks to these users. From October 2013 through the present, 
multiple deaths and severe overdoses have occurred involving AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and/or THJ-2201.
    7. Its Psychic or Physiological Dependence Liability: As stated by 
the HHS, AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 have pharmacological 
profiles that are similar to other schedule I SCs. Although there are 
no clinical studies evaluating dependence liabilities specific for AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201, the pharmacological profiles of these 
substances strongly suggest that they possess dependence liabilities 
that are qualitatively similar to, and potentially stronger than 
[Delta]\9\-THC (schedule I) or marijuana (schedule I) and likely to be 
similar to other schedule I synthetic cannabinoids such as, JWH-018.
    8. Whether the Substance is an Immediate Precursor of a Substance 
Already Controlled Under the CSA: AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 
are not immediate precursors of any controlled substance of the CSA.
    Conclusion: After considering the scientific and medical evaluation 
conducted by the HHS, the HHS's recommendation, and the DEA's own 
eight-factor analysis, the DEA finds that the facts and all relevant 
data constitute substantial evidence of the potential for abuse of AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201. As such, the DEA hereby proposes to 
schedule AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 as controlled substances 
under the CSA.

Proposed Determination of Appropriate Schedule

    The CSA establishes five schedules of controlled substances known 
as

[[Page 8597]]

schedules I, II, III, IV, and V. The CSA also outlines the findings 
required to place a drug or other substance in any particular schedule. 
21 U.S.C. 812(b). After consideration of the analysis and 
recommendation of the Assistant Secretary for HHS and review of all 
other available data, the Administrator of the DEA, pursuant to 21 
U.S.C. 811(a) and 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1), finds that:
    1. AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 have a high potential for 
abuse that is comparable to other schedule I substances such as delta 
9-tetrahydrocannabinol ([Delta]\9\-THC) and JWH-018;
    2. AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 have no currently accepted 
medical use in treatment in the United States; and
    3. There is a lack of accepted safety for use of AB-CHMINACA, AB-
PINACA and THJ-2201 under medical supervision.
    Based on these findings, the Administrator of the DEA concludes 
that N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-
indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-CHMINACA), N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-
yl)-1-pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PINACA) and [1-(5-
fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-yl)methanone (THJ-2201), 
including their salts, isomers and salts of isomers, whenever the 
existence of such salts, isomers, and salts of isomers is possible, 
warrant continued control in schedule I of the CSA. 21 U.S.C. 
812(b)(1).

Requirements for Handling AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201

    If this rule is finalized as proposed, AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and 
THJ-2201 would continue \3\ to be subject to the regulatory controls 
and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable to the 
manufacture, distribution, dispensing, importing, exporting, research, 
and conduct of instructional activities, of schedule I substances 
including the following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201 are currently subject to 
schedule I controls on a temporary basis, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 
811(h). 80 FR 5042, Jan. 30, 2015.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    1. Registration. Any person who handles (manufactures, distributes, 
imports, exports, engages in research, or conducts instructional 
activities or chemical analysis with, or possesses) AB-CHMINACA, AB-
PINACA or THJ-2201, or who desires to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or 
THJ-2201, would continue to be required to 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.
    2. Security. AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 would continue to 
be subject to schedule I security requirements and would need to be 
handled and stored pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 821, 823 and in accordance 
with 21 CFR 1301.71-1301.93.
    3. Labeling and Packaging. All labels, labeling, and packaging for 
commercial containers of AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201would 
continue to need to be in compliance with 21 U.S.C. 825 and 958(e), and 
continue to be in accordance with 21 CFR part 1302.
    4. Quota. Only registered manufacturers would continue to be 
permitted to manufacture AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 in 
accordance with a quota assigned pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 826 and in 
accordance with 21 CFR part 1303.
    5. Inventory. Any person who becomes registered with the DEA on or 
after the effective date of the final rule must take an initial 
inventory of all stocks of controlled substances (including AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201) on hand on the date the registrant 
first engages in the handling of controlled substances pursuant to 21 
U.S.C. 827 and 958, and in accordance with 21 CFR 1304.03, 1304.04, and 
1304.11.
    After the initial inventory, every DEA registrant must take a new 
inventory of all stocks of controlled substances (including AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and THJ-2201) on hand every two years, pursuant to 
21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, and in accordance with 21 CFR 1304.03, 1304.04, 
and 1304.11.
    6. Records and Reports. Every DEA registrant would continue to be 
required to maintain records and submit reports with respect to AB-
CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and/or THJ-2201 pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 
958(e), and in accordance with 21 CFR parts 1304 and 1312.
    7. Order Forms. Every DEA registrant who distributes AB-CHMINACA, 
AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 would continue to be required to comply with the 
order form requirements, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 828, and 21 CFR part 
1305.
    8. Importation and Exportation. All importation and exportation of 
AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 would continue to need to be in 
compliance with 21 U.S.C. 952, 953, 957, and 958, and in accordance 
with 21 CFR part 1312.
    9. Liability. Any activity involving AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-
2201 not authorized by, or in violation of, the CSA or its implementing 
regulations would continue to be unlawful, and could subject the person 
to administrative, civil, and/or criminal sanctions.

Regulatory Analyses

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    In accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(a), this proposed scheduling 
action is subject to formal rulemaking procedures performed ``on the 
record after opportunity for a hearing,'' which are conducted pursuant 
to the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557. The CSA sets forth the 
criteria for scheduling a drug or other substance. Such actions are 
exempt from review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
pursuant to section 3(d)(1) of Executive Order 12866 and the principles 
reaffirmed in Executive Order 13563.

Executive Order 12988

    This proposed regulation meets the applicable standards set forth 
in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988 to eliminate 
drafting errors and ambiguity, minimize litigation, provide a clear 
legal standard for affected conduct, and promote simplification and 
burden reduction.

Executive Order 13132

    This proposed rulemaking does not have federalism implications 
warranting the application of Executive Order 13132. The proposed rule 
does not have substantial direct effects on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government.

Executive Order 13175

    This proposed rule does not have tribal implications warranting the 
application of Executive Order 13175. It does not have substantial 
direct effects on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship 
between the Federal government and Indian tribes, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal 
government and Indian tribes.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Administrator, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601-602, has reviewed this proposed rule and by 
approving it certifies that it will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. On January 30, 2015, 
the DEA published a final order to temporarily place these three SCs 
into schedule I of the CSA pursuant to the temporary scheduling 
provisions of 21 U.S.C. 811(h). The DEA estimates that all entities 
handling or

[[Page 8598]]

planning to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 have already 
established and implemented the systems and processes required to 
handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201. There are currently 25 
registrations authorized to handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA and/or THJ-
2201 specifically, as well as a number of registered analytical labs 
that are authorized to handle schedule I controlled substances 
generally. These 25 registrations represent 18 entities, of which 8 are 
small entities. Therefore, the DEA estimates eight small entities are 
affected by this proposed rule.
    A review of the 25 registrations indicates that all entities that 
currently handle AB-CHMINACA, AB-PINACA or THJ-2201 also handle other 
schedule I controlled substances, and have established and implemented 
(or maintain) the systems and processes required to handle AB-CHMINACA, 
AB-PINACA or THJ-2201. Therefore, the DEA anticipates that this 
proposed rule will impose minimal or no economic impact on any affected 
entities; and thus, will not have a significant economic impact on any 
of the eight affected small entities. Therefore, the DEA has concluded 
that this proposed rule will not have a significant effect on a 
substantial number of small entities.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) of 1995, 
2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq., the DEA has determined and certifies that this 
action would not result in any Federal mandate that may result ``in the 
expenditure by State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, 
or by the private sector, of $100,000,000 or more (adjusted for 
inflation) in any one year * * *.'' Therefore, neither a Small 
Government Agency Plan nor any other action is required under UMRA of 
1995.

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    This action does not impose a new collection of information under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. 44 U.S.C. 3501-3521. This action 
would not impose recordkeeping or reporting requirements on State or 
local governments, individuals, businesses, or organizations. An agency 
may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, 
a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB 
control number.

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 proposes to amend 21 CFR 
part 1308:

PART 1308--SCHEDULES OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

0
1. The authority citation for 21 CFR part 1308 continues to read as 
follows:

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

0
2. In Sec.  1308.11,
0
a. Add new paragraphs (d)(59) through (61); and
0
b. Remove paragraphs (h)(11) through (13); and
0
c. Redesignate paragraphs (h)(14) through (19) as (h)(11) through (16);
    The additions to read as follows:


Sec.  1308.11   Schedule I.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(59) N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-                      (7031)
 (cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-
 CHMINACA)..............................................
(60) N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-pentyl-1H-            (7023)
 indazole-3-carboxamide (AB-PINACA).....................
(61) [1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-           (7024)
 yl)methanone (THJ-2201)................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

    Dated: January 17, 2017.
Chuck Rosenberg,
Acting Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2017-01514 Filed 1-26-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4410-09-P



                                                                                                                                                                                                      8593

                                                    Proposed Rules                                                                                                 Federal Register
                                                                                                                                                                   Vol. 82, No. 17

                                                                                                                                                                   Friday, January 27, 2017



                                                    This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER                    will not accept comments after 11:59                   Virginia 22152; and (2) Drug
                                                    contains notices to the public of the proposed          p.m. Eastern Time on the last day of the               Enforcement Administration, Attn: DEA
                                                    issuance of rules and regulations. The                  comment period.                                        Federal Register Representative/DRW,
                                                    purpose of these notices is to give interested             Interested persons, defined at 21 CFR               8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield,
                                                    persons an opportunity to participate in the            1300.01 as those ‘‘adversely affected or               Virginia 22152.
                                                    rule making prior to the adoption of the final
                                                    rules.
                                                                                                            aggrieved by any rule or proposed rule                 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                                                                            issuable pursuant to section 201 of the                Michael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
                                                                                                            Act (21 U.S.C. 811),’’ may file a request              Division, Drug Enforcement
                                                    DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE                                   for hearing or waiver of hearing                       Administration; Mailing Address: 8701
                                                                                                            pursuant to 21 CFR 1308.44 and in                      Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia
                                                    Drug Enforcement Administration                         accordance with 21 CFR 1316.45 and/or                  22152; Telephone: (202) 598–6812.
                                                                                                            1316.47, as applicable. Requests for                   SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                    21 CFR Part 1308                                        hearing and waivers of an opportunity
                                                                                                            for a hearing or to participate in a                   Posting of Public Comments
                                                    [Docket No. DEA–402]
                                                                                                            hearing must be received on or before                     Please note that all comments
                                                    Schedules of Controlled Substances:                     February 27, 2017.                                     received in response to this docket are
                                                    Placement of AB–CHMINACA, AB–                           ADDRESSES: To ensure proper handling                   considered part of the public record.
                                                    PINACA and THJ–2201 Into Schedule I                     of comments, please reference ‘‘Docket                 They will, unless reasonable cause is
                                                                                                            No. DEA–402’’ on all electronic and                    given, be made available by the Drug
                                                    AGENCY: Drug Enforcement                                written correspondence, including any                  Enforcement Administration (DEA) for
                                                    Administration, Department of Justice.                  attachments.                                           public inspection online at http://
                                                    ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.                     • Electronic comments: The Drug                     www.regulations.gov. Such information
                                                                                                            Enforcement Administration encourages                  includes personal identifying
                                                    SUMMARY:    The Drug Enforcement                        that all comments be submitted                         information (such as your name,
                                                    Administration proposes placing N-(1-                   electronically through the Federal                     address, etc.) voluntarily submitted by
                                                    amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-                      eRulemaking Portal which provides the                  the commenter. The Freedom of
                                                    (cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-                       ability to type short comments directly                Information Act (FOIA) applies to all
                                                    carboxamide (AB–CHMINACA), N-(1-                        into the comment field on the Web page                 comments received. If you want to
                                                    amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-                      or attach a file for lengthier comments.               submit personal identifying information
                                                    pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–                   Please go to http://www.regulations.gov                (such as your name, address, etc.) as
                                                    PINACA) and [1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-                     and follow the online instructions at                  part of your comment, but do not want
                                                    indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-                             that site for submitting comments. Upon                it to be made publicly available, you
                                                    yl)methanone (THJ–2201), including                      completion of your submission you will                 must include the phrase ‘‘PERSONAL
                                                    their salts, isomers, and salts of isomers              receive a Comment Tracking Number for                  IDENTIFYING INFORMATION’’ in the
                                                    whenever the existence of such salts,                   your comment. Please be aware that                     first paragraph of your comment. You
                                                    isomers, and salts of isomers is possible,              submitted comments are not                             must also place all of the personal
                                                    into schedule I of the Controlled                       instantaneously available for public                   identifying information you do not want
                                                    Substances Act. This proposed                           view on Regulations.gov. If you have                   made publicly available in the first
                                                    scheduling action is pursuant to the                    received a Comment Tracking Number,                    paragraph of your comment and identify
                                                    Controlled Substances Act which                         your comment has been successfully                     what information you want redacted.
                                                    requires that such actions be made on                   submitted and there is no need to                         If you want to submit confidential
                                                    the record after opportunity for a                      resubmit the same comment.                             business information as part of your
                                                    hearing through formal rulemaking. If                      • Paper comments: Paper comments                    comment, but do not want it to be made
                                                    finalized, this action would continue to                that duplicate the electronic submission               publicly available, you must include the
                                                    impose the regulatory controls and                      are not necessary. Should you wish to                  phrase ‘‘CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS
                                                    administrative, civil, and criminal                     mail a paper comment, in lieu of an                    INFORMATION’’ in the first paragraph
                                                    sanctions applicable to schedule I                      electronic comment, it should be sent                  of your comment. You must also
                                                    controlled substances on persons who                    via regular or express mail to: Drug                   prominently identify the confidential
                                                    handle (manufacture, distribute, import,                Enforcement Administration, Attn: DEA                  business information to be redacted
                                                    export, engage in research, conduct                     Federal Register Representative/DRW,                   within the comment.
                                                    instructional activities or chemical                    8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield,                      Comments containing personal
                                                    analysis, or possess), or propose to                    Virginia 22152.                                        identifying information or confidential
                                                    handle AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA                              • Hearing requests: All requests for a              business information identified as
                                                    and THJ–2201.                                           hearing and waivers of participation                   directed above will be made publicly
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    DATES: Interested persons may file                      must be sent to: Drug Enforcement                      available in redacted form. If a comment
                                                    written comments on this proposal in                    Administration, Attn: Administrator,                   has so much confidential business
                                                    accordance with 21 CFR 1308.43(g).                      8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield,                   information that it cannot be effectively
                                                    Comments must be submitted                              Virginia 22152. All requests for hearing               redacted, all or part of that comment
                                                    electronically or postmarked on or                      and waivers of participation should be                 may not be made publicly available.
                                                    before February 27, 2017. Commenters                    sent to: (1) Drug Enforcement                          Comments posted to http://
                                                    should be aware that the electronic                     Administration, Attn: Hearing Clerk/LJ,                www.regulations.gov may include any
                                                    Federal Docket Management System                        8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield,                   personal identifying information (such


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                                                    8594                     Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                    as name, address, and phone number)                     purpose of this action. 21 U.S.C. 801–                 civil, and criminal sanctions of schedule
                                                    included in the text of your electronic                 971. The DEA publishes the                             I controlled substances on any person
                                                    submission that is not identified as                    implementing regulations for these                     who handles or proposes to handle AB–
                                                    directed above as confidential.                         statutes in title 21 of the Code of Federal            CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–
                                                      An electronic copy of this document                   Regulations (CFR), chapter II. The CSA                 2201.
                                                    and supplemental information to this                    and its implementing regulations are
                                                    proposed rule are available at http://                                                                         Background
                                                                                                            designed to prevent, detect, and
                                                    www.regulations.gov for easy reference.                 eliminate the diversion of controlled                     On January 30, 2015, the DEA
                                                                                                            substances and listed chemicals into the               published a final order in the Federal
                                                    Request for Hearing, or Waiver of                                                                              Register amending 21 CFR 1308.11(h) to
                                                    Participation in Hearing                                illicit market while providing for the
                                                                                                            legitimate medical, scientific, research,              temporarily place the three synthetic
                                                       Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a), this                   and industrial needs of the United                     cannabinoids [1-(5-Fluoropentyl)-1H-
                                                    action is a formal rulemaking ‘‘on the                  States. Controlled substances have the                 indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-
                                                    record after opportunity for a hearing.’’               potential for abuse and dependence and                 yl)methanone (THJ–2201); N-1-Amino-
                                                    Such proceedings are conducted                          are controlled to protect the public                   3-methyl-1-oxo-2-butanyl]-1-pentyl-1H-
                                                    pursuant to the provisions of the                       health and safety.                                     indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–PINACA);
                                                    Administrative Procedure Act (APA), 5                      Under the CSA, controlled substances                and N-[1-Amino-3-methyl-1-oxo-2-
                                                    U.S.C. 551–559. 21 CFR 1308.41–                         are classified into one of five schedules              butanyl]-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-
                                                    1308.45; 21 CFR part 1316, subpart D.                   based upon their potential for abuse,                  indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–
                                                    In accordance with 21 CFR 1308.44(a)–                   their currently accepted medical use in                CHMINACA) into schedule I of the CSA
                                                    (c), requests for hearing, notices of                   treatment in the United States, and the                pursuant to the temporary scheduling
                                                    appearance, and waivers of an                           degree of dependence the substance                     provisions of 21 U.S.C. 811(h). 80 FR
                                                    opportunity for a hearing or to                         may cause. 21 U.S.C. 812. The initial                  5042. That final order, which became
                                                    participate in a hearing may be                         schedules of controlled substances                     effective on the date of publication, was
                                                    submitted only by interested persons,                   established by Congress are found at 21                based on findings by the Administrator
                                                    defined as those ‘‘adversely affected or                U.S.C. 812(c), and the current list of                 of the DEA that the temporary
                                                    aggrieved by any rule or proposed rule                  scheduled substances is published at 21                scheduling of these three synthetic
                                                    issuable pursuant to section 201 of the                 CFR part 1308.                                         cannabinoids was necessary to avoid an
                                                    Act (21 U.S.C. 811).’’ 21 CFR 1300.01.                     Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1), the                imminent hazard to the public safety
                                                    Such requests or notices must conform                   Attorney General may, by rule, ‘‘add to                pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). At the
                                                    to the requirements of 21 CFR                           such a schedule or transfer between                    time the final order took effect, section
                                                    1308.44(a) or (b), and 1316.47 or                       such schedules any drug or other                       201(h)(2) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                                    1316.48, as applicable, and include a                   substance if he (A) finds that such drug               811(h)(2), required that the temporary
                                                    statement of interest of the person in the              or other substance has a potential for                 scheduling of a substance expire at the
                                                    proceeding and the objections or issues,                abuse, and (B) makes with respect to                   end of two years from the date of the
                                                    if any, concerning which the person                     such drug or other substance the                       scheduling order, and it provided that,
                                                    desires to be heard. Any waiver must                    findings prescribed by subsection (b) of               during the pendency of proceedings
                                                    conform to the requirements of 21 CFR                   section 812 of this title for the schedule             under 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1) with respect
                                                    1308.44(c) and may include a written                    in which such drug is to be placed                     to the substance, temporary scheduling
                                                    statement regarding the interested                      * * *.’’ The Attorney General has                      of that substance could be extended for
                                                    person’s position on the matters of fact                delegated scheduling authority under 21                up to 1 year. Pursuant to 21 U.S.C.
                                                    and law involved in any hearing.                        U.S.C. 811 to the Administrator of the                 811(h)(2), the temporary scheduling of
                                                       Please note that pursuant to 21 U.S.C.               DEA. 28 CFR 0.100.                                     THJ–2201, AB–PINACA, and AB–
                                                    811(a), the purpose and subject matter                     The CSA provides that proceedings                   CHMINACA expires on January 29,
                                                    of a hearing held in relation to this                   for the issuance, amendment, or repeal                 2017, unless extended. An extension of
                                                    rulemaking is restricted to: ‘‘(A)                      of the scheduling of any drug or other                 the temporary order is being ordered by
                                                    find[ing] that such drug or other                       substance may be initiated by the                      the DEA Administrator in a separate
                                                    substance has a potential for abuse, and                Attorney General (1) on her own                        action.
                                                    (B) mak[ing] with respect to such drug                  motion; (2) at the request of the                         The Administrator of the DEA, on his
                                                    or other substance the findings                         Secretary of the Department of Health                  own motion pursuant to 21 U.S.C.
                                                    prescribed by subsection (b) of section                 and Human Services (HHS); 1 or (3) on                  811(a), has initiated proceedings under
                                                    812 of this title for the schedule in                   the petition of any interested party. 21               21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1) to permanently
                                                    which such drug is to be placed * * *.’’                U.S.C. 811(a). This proposed action is                 schedule THJ–2201, AB–PINACA and
                                                    All requests for hearing and waivers of                 supported by a recommendation from                     AB–CHMINACA. The DEA has gathered
                                                    participation must be sent to the DEA                   the Assistant Secretary of the HHS and                 and reviewed the available information
                                                    using the address information provided                  an evaluation of all other relevant data               regarding the pharmacology, chemistry,
                                                    above.                                                  by the DEA. If finalized, this action                  trafficking, actual abuse, pattern of
                                                                                                            would continue to impose the                           abuse, and the relative potential for
                                                    Legal Authority                                         regulatory controls and administrative,                abuse for these three synthetic
                                                      The DEA implements and enforces                                                                              cannabinoids. In accordance with 21
                                                    Titles II and III of the Comprehensive                    1 As discussed in a memorandum of                    U.S.C. 811(b) and (c), on August 26,
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act                   understanding entered into by the Food and Drug        2015, the DEA submitted a request to
                                                                                                            Administration (FDA) and the National Institute on
                                                    of 1970, as amended. Titles II and III are              Drug Abuse (NIDA), the FDA acts as the lead agency
                                                                                                                                                                   the HHS to provide the DEA with a
                                                    referred to as the ‘‘Controlled                         within the HHS in carrying out the Secretary’s         scientific and medical evaluation of
                                                    Substances Act’’ and the ‘‘Controlled                   scheduling responsibilities under the CSA, with the    available information and a scheduling
                                                    Substances Import and Export Act,’’                     concurrence of NIDA. 50 FR 9518, Mar. 8, 1985.         recommendation for THJ–2201, AB–
                                                                                                            The Secretary of the HHS has delegated to the
                                                    respectively, and are collectively                      Assistant Secretary for Health of the HHS the
                                                                                                                                                                   PINACA and AB–CHMINACA. Upon
                                                    referred to as the ‘‘Controlled                         authority to make domestic drug scheduling             evaluating the scientific and medical
                                                    Substances Act’’ or the ‘‘CSA’’ for the                 recommendations. 58 FR 35460, July 1, 1993.            evidence, on November 14, 2016, the


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                                                                             Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / Proposed Rules                                           8595

                                                    HHS submitted to the Administrator of                      (a) There is evidence that individuals              Although the AAPCC does not identify
                                                    the DEA its three scientific and medical                are taking the drug or drugs containing                specific cannabinoid substances, their
                                                    evaluations for these substances. Upon                  such a substance in amounts sufficient                 data do support the high prevalence of
                                                    receipt of the scientific and medical                   to create a hazard to their health or to               toxic exposures to SCs in general. In
                                                    evaluations and scheduling                              the safety of other individuals or of the              2015, at least 15 calls to Poison Centers
                                                    recommendations from the HHS, the                       community; or                                          regarding SCs exposures were
                                                    DEA reviewed the documents and all                         (b) There is significant diversion of               associated with deaths, which is triple
                                                    other relevant data, and conducted its                  the drug or drugs containing such a                    the 5 deaths associated with such calls
                                                    own eight-factor analysis of the abuse                  substance from legitimate drug                         for all of 2014.
                                                    potential of THJ–2201, AB–PINACA and                    channels; or                                              The HHS stated that there are no
                                                    AB–CHMINACA in accordance with 21                          (c) Individuals are taking the drug or              FDA-approved drug products containing
                                                    U.S.C. 811(c). The DEA has published a                  drugs containing such a substance on                   AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and
                                                    temporary order for the extension of the                their own initiative rather than on the                THJ–2201 in the United States and there
                                                    placement of THJ–2201, AB–PINACA                        basis of medical advice from a                         appear to be no legitimate sources for
                                                    and AB–CHMINACA into schedule I                         practitioner licensed by law to                        these substances as marketed drugs.
                                                    elsewhere in this issue of the Federal                  administer such drugs in the course of                 Therefore, this criterion for assessing
                                                    Register.                                               his professional practice; or                          the abuse potential of these SCs is not
                                                                                                               (d) The drug or drugs containing such
                                                                                                                                                                   applicable. According to the HHS,
                                                    Proposed Determination To Schedule                      a substance are new drugs so related in
                                                                                                                                                                   because AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA
                                                    THJ–2201, AB–PINACA and AB–                             their action to a drug or drugs already
                                                                                                                                                                   and THJ–2201 are not approved for
                                                    CHMINACA                                                listed as having a potential for abuse to
                                                                                                                                                                   medical use and are not formulated or
                                                                                                            make it likely that the drug will have the
                                                       Pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1),                                                                            available for clinical use, the human use
                                                                                                            same potentiality for abuse as such
                                                    proceedings to add a drug or substance                                                                         of these substances is assumed to be on
                                                                                                            drugs, thus making it reasonable to
                                                    to those controlled under the CSA may                                                                          an individual’s own initiative, rather
                                                                                                            assume that there may be significant
                                                    be initiated by the Attorney General, or                diversions from legitimate channels,                   than on the basis of medical advice from
                                                    her delegate, the DEA Administrator. On                 significant use contrary to or without                 a practitioner licensed by law to
                                                    August 26, 2015, the DEA requested                      medical advice, or that it has a                       administer drugs. Further, published
                                                    scientific and medical evaluations and                  substantial capability of creating                     scientific and medical literature, and
                                                    scheduling recommendations from the                     hazards to the health of the user or to                reports from AAPCC and law
                                                    Assistant Secretary of Health for the                   the safety of the community.                           enforcement, indicate that individuals
                                                    U.S. Department of Health and Human                        Through epidemiological and case                    are taking these SCs on their own
                                                    Services (HHS) for THJ–2201, AB–                        report data, HHS has demonstrated that                 initiative, rather than on the basis of
                                                    PINACA and AB–CHMINACA pursuant                         the ingestion of AB–CHMINACA, AB–                      medical advice of a licensed
                                                    to 21 U.S.C. 811(b). Upon receipt of the                PINACA and/or THJ–2201 in sufficient                   practitioner. As noted by the HHS,
                                                    scientific and medical evaluations and                  amounts is creating a hazard to the                    pharmacological studies sponsored by
                                                    scheduling recommendations from the                     health and safety of both the individual               the National Institute on Drug Abuse
                                                    HHS dated November 14, 2016, the DEA                    users and others within the community.                 (NIDA) have demonstrated that AB–
                                                    reviewed the documents and all other                    Adverse effects observed following the                 CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–
                                                    relevant data and conducted its own                     ingestion of synthetic cannabinoids                    2201 are similar to other schedule I SCs.
                                                    eight-factor analysis of the abuse                      (SCs), including AB–CHMINACA, AB–                      All three of these substances, similar to
                                                    potential of THJ–2201, AB–PINACA and                    PINACA and THJ–2201, include nausea                    schedule I SCs, display high affinity
                                                    AB–CHMINACA pursuant to 21 U.S.C.                       and vomiting, shortness of breath or                   binding and potent agonist functional
                                                    811(c). Included below is a brief                       depressed breathing, hypertension,                     activity at the cannabinoid (CB1)
                                                    summary of each factor as analyzed by                   tachycardia, chest pain, muscle                        receptor, while drug discrimination
                                                    the HHS and the DEA, and as                             twitching, acute renal failure, anxiety,               studies have demonstrated the ability of
                                                    considered by the DEA in its proposed                   agitation, psychosis, suicidal ideation,               all three substances to substitute for D9-
                                                    scheduling action. Please note that both                and cognitive impairment. The HHS                      tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC) (see
                                                    the DEA 8-Factor and HHS 8-Factor                       also stated that SCs like AB–                          factor 2). The HHS stated in their review
                                                    analyses and the Assistant Secretary’s                  CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–                           that AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and
                                                    November 14, 2016, letter, are available                2201 are easily accessible and difficult               THJ–2201 are markedly more potent at
                                                    in their entirety under the tab                         to detect in standard urine drug screens,              CB1 receptors than the natural
                                                    ‘‘Supporting Documents’’ of the public                  which contributes to their popularity                  phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids that
                                                    docket of this action at http://                        and high rates of abuse.                               occur naturally in the cannabis plant,
                                                    www.regulations.gov, under Docket                          The American Association of Poison                  i.e. D9-THC).
                                                    Number ‘‘DEA–402.’’                                     Control Centers (AAPCC) reported 7,779                    2. Scientific Evidence of the Drug’s
                                                                                                            calls to poison centers about exposures                Pharmacological Effects, if Known: In
                                                       1. The Drug’s Actual or Relative
                                                                                                            to SCs from January 1, 2015 through                    vitro receptor binding and functional
                                                    Potential for Abuse: The term ‘‘abuse’’ is
                                                                                                            December 31, 2015. This number is                      assays were conducted with AB–
                                                    not defined in the CSA. However, the
                                                                                                            significantly higher than the number of                CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–
                                                    legislative history of the CSA suggests
                                                                                                            calls in all of 2014 (3,682), or all of 2013           2201. In addition, drug discrimination
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                                                    that the DEA consider the following
                                                                                                            (2,668). In 2015, there was a notable                  assays using Sprague Dawley rats were
                                                    criteria in determining whether a
                                                                                                            increase in calls during April (1,512)                 performed to identify drugs with similar
                                                    particular drug or substance has a
                                                                                                            and May (1,205), falling to a stable, but              subjective effects to D9-THC. The tetrad
                                                    potential for abuse: 2
                                                                                                            higher baseline for the rest of the year:              assay was also conducted for AB–
                                                      2 Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and
                                                                                                            A seasonal pattern not seen in previous                CHMINACA and AB–PINACA. These
                                                    Control Act of 1970, H.R. Rep. No. 91–1444, 91st
                                                                                                            years. In 2016, the numbers of exposure                results indicate that AB–CHMINACA,
                                                    Cong., Sess. 1 (1970); reprinted in 1970                calls (2,695) have dropped again,                      AB–PINACA and THJ–2201, similar to
                                                    U.S.C.C.A.N. 4566, 4603.                                mirroring those of 2013 (2,668).                       other schedule I SCs, bind to CB1


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                                                    8596                     Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                    receptors with high affinity and act as                 individuals seeking intoxication while                 of AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and
                                                    agonists at CB1 receptors.                              hoping to evade detection. AB–                         THJ–2201 that have been confirmed by
                                                       Based on results from the receptor                   CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–                           forensic laboratories.
                                                    binding (Ki), CB1 functional assay, and                 2201 are another generation of SCs                        6. What, if Any, Risk There is to the
                                                    drug discrimination studies, the HHS                    encountered by law enforcement. These                  Public Health: Clinical symptoms as
                                                    concluded that AB–CHMINACA, AB–                         substances and their products are                      reported from overdoses with AB–
                                                    PINACA and THJ–2201 act as full                         commonly marketed as ‘‘legal highs’’                   CHMINACA and AB–PINACA in
                                                    psychoactive cannabinoid agonists with                  with a disclaimer of ‘‘not for human                   particular have included excited
                                                    no antagonist activity, and that these                  consumption.’’ As detailed in reports,                 delirium, seizure, coma, agitation,
                                                    three substances are more potent than                   law enforcement and public health                      myocardial infarction, convulsions,
                                                    D9-THC (schedule I), and are similar in                 officials are encountering the abuse of                difficulty breathing, and an altered state
                                                    activity to JWH–018, AM2201, ADB–                       these substances.                                      of consciousness. The HHS reported
                                                    PINACA, and AB–FUBINACA (schedule                          Most users of SCs abuse these                       that despite the increasing public
                                                    I). As stated by the HHS, these data                    substances by smoking the product                      recognition of the harms of SCs,
                                                    indicate that AB–CHMINACA, AB–                          following application to plant material.               multiple groups, including athletes,
                                                    PINACA and THJ–2201 are more potent                     Recently, law enforcement has also been                military personnel, employees who
                                                    at producing behavioral                                 encountering new variations of SCs in                  undergo frequent drug testing, and
                                                    pharmacological effects that are                        liquid form. The liquids contain one or                individuals seeking intoxication,
                                                    recognizable as those produced by the                   more SC(s), including AB–CHMINACA                      continue to abuse these substances
                                                    schedule I cannabinoid D9-THC.                          and AB–PINACA, as well as previously                   while hoping to evade detection.
                                                       3. The State of Current Scientific                   controlled substances including AB–                       Since abusers obtain these drugs
                                                    Knowledge Regarding the Drug or Other                   FUBINACA and XLR11. Users have                         through unknown sources, the purity of
                                                    Substance: The DEA is not aware of any                  been identified as applying the liquid to              these drugs is uncertain, thus posing
                                                    currently accepted medical uses for AB–                 hookahs (an instrument for vaporizing                  significant adverse health risks to these
                                                    CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–                            and smoking a given material whereby                   users. From October 2013 through the
                                                    2201. A letter dated September 17, 2014                 the smoke or vapor passes through a                    present, multiple deaths and severe
                                                    was sent from the DEA Deputy                            water basin prior to inhalation),                      overdoses have occurred involving AB–
                                                    Administrator to the Acting Assistant                   vaporizers (also known as ‘‘vaping’’ or                CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and/or THJ–
                                                    Secretary for Health, of the Department                 an ‘‘e-cigarette,’’ which allows the user              2201.
                                                    for Health and Human Services as                        to administer a liquid to be aerosolized                  7. Its Psychic or Physiological
                                                    notification of intent to temporarily                   and then inhaled), and hookah pens (a                  Dependence Liability: As stated by the
                                                    place these three substances in schedule                type of vaporizer, often much smaller                  HHS, AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA
                                                    I and solicited comments, including                     and intended for increased discretion                  and THJ–2201 have pharmacological
                                                    whether an exemption or approval was                    while smoking). As reported by users,                  profiles that are similar to other
                                                    in effect for the substances in question                specifically adolescents, this method of               schedule I SCs. Although there are no
                                                    under the Federal Food, Drug and                        vaporizing and inhaling SCs is viewed                  clinical studies evaluating dependence
                                                    Cosmetic Act. The Acting Assistant                      as being safer than traditional smoking                liabilities specific for AB–CHMINACA,
                                                    Secretary of Health responded that there                (blunt, pipe, cigarette, etc.). In a recent            AB–PINACA and THJ–2201, the
                                                    were no current INDs or NDAs for these                  study, 91% of SC users reported                        pharmacological profiles of these
                                                    synthetic cannabinoids in a letter to the               inhalation of the product via a cigarette              substances strongly suggest that they
                                                    DEA Deputy Administrator dated                          or blunt, 27% of the respondents also                  possess dependence liabilities that are
                                                    September 30, 2014. The HHS in its                      reported using methods that included                   qualitatively similar to, and potentially
                                                    scientific and medical evaluation and                   vaporization, water pipe, bong, or                     stronger than D9-THC (schedule I) or
                                                    scheduling recommendation dated                         hookah as a delivery method.                           marijuana (schedule I) and likely to be
                                                    November 14, 2016 reiterated that these                    5. The Scope, Duration, and                         similar to other schedule I synthetic
                                                    three SCs are not the subjects of any                   Significance of Abuse: AB–CHMINACA,                    cannabinoids such as, JWH–018.
                                                    approved new drug applications (NDAs)                   AB–PINACA and THJ–2201 are SCs that                       8. Whether the Substance is an
                                                    or investigational new drug applications                have pharmacological effects similar to                Immediate Precursor of a Substance
                                                    (INDs); are not currently marketed as                   the schedule I hallucinogen D9-THC.                    Already Controlled Under the CSA: AB–
                                                    approved drug products; and have no                     Poison control centers continue to                     CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–
                                                    accepted medical uses in the United                     report toxic exposures to SCs and their                2201 are not immediate precursors of
                                                    States.                                                 associated products. These substances                  any controlled substance of the CSA.
                                                       4. Its History and Current Pattern of                remain a threat to both the short- and                    Conclusion: After considering the
                                                    Abuse: Synthetic cannabinoids intended                  long-term public health and safety. THJ–               scientific and medical evaluation
                                                    for illicit use were first encountered in               2201 was first reported in September                   conducted by the HHS, the HHS’s
                                                    the United States in November 2008                      2013 while AB–CHMINACA was first                       recommendation, and the DEA’s own
                                                    during seizure and analysis by the                      reported in February of 2014. AB–                      eight-factor analysis, the DEA finds that
                                                    United States Customs and Border                        PINACA was encountered on the illicit                  the facts and all relevant data constitute
                                                    Protection (CBP) of a shipment of                       drug market as early as March 2013.                    substantial evidence of the potential for
                                                    ‘‘Spice’’ in Dayton, Ohio. The                          From December 2013 through May                         abuse of AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA
                                                    popularity of these cannabinoids and                    2015, CBP reported select encounters of
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                                                                                                                                                                   and THJ–2201. As such, the DEA hereby
                                                    their associated products has increased                 these substances with most shipments                   proposes to schedule AB–CHMINACA,
                                                    since January 2010 in the United States                 originating in China and intended for                  AB–PINACA and THJ–2201 as
                                                    as evidenced by the increasing number                   destinations within the United States:                 controlled substances under the CSA.
                                                    of seizures and public health and media                 AB–CHMINACA–50 seizures involving
                                                    reports. The HHS noted that SC abuse                    56.29 kg; AB–PINACA–11 seizures                        Proposed Determination of Appropriate
                                                    has been repeatedly noted in athletes,                  involving 15 kg; THJ–2201–6 seizures                   Schedule
                                                    military personnel, employees who                       involving 5.5 kg. The DEA has reported                   The CSA establishes five schedules of
                                                    undergo frequent drug testing, and other                multiple encounters of large quantities                controlled substances known as


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                                                                             Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / Proposed Rules                                           8597

                                                    schedules I, II, III, IV, and V. The CSA                823, 957, and 958 and in accordance                    unlawful, and could subject the person
                                                    also outlines the findings required to                  with 21 CFR parts 1301 and 1312.                       to administrative, civil, and/or criminal
                                                    place a drug or other substance in any                     2. Security. AB–CHMINACA, AB–                       sanctions.
                                                    particular schedule. 21 U.S.C. 812(b).                  PINACA or THJ–2201 would continue
                                                                                                            to be subject to schedule I security                   Regulatory Analyses
                                                    After consideration of the analysis and
                                                    recommendation of the Assistant                         requirements and would need to be                      Executive Orders 12866 and 13563
                                                    Secretary for HHS and review of all                     handled and stored pursuant to 21                        In accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(a),
                                                    other available data, the Administrator                 U.S.C. 821, 823 and in accordance with                 this proposed scheduling action is
                                                    of the DEA, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(a)                21 CFR 1301.71–1301.93.                                subject to formal rulemaking procedures
                                                    and 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1), finds that:                       3. Labeling and Packaging. All labels,
                                                                                                                                                                   performed ‘‘on the record after
                                                       1. AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and                        labeling, and packaging for commercial
                                                                                                                                                                   opportunity for a hearing,’’ which are
                                                    THJ–2201 have a high potential for                      containers of AB–CHMINACA, AB–                         conducted pursuant to the provisions of
                                                    abuse that is comparable to other                       PINACA or THJ–2201would continue to                    5 U.S.C. 556 and 557. The CSA sets
                                                    schedule I substances such as delta 9-                  need to be in compliance with 21 U.S.C.                forth the criteria for scheduling a drug
                                                    tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC) and                       825 and 958(e), and continue to be in                  or other substance. Such actions are
                                                    JWH–018;                                                accordance with 21 CFR part 1302.                      exempt from review by the Office of
                                                       2. AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and                           4. Quota. Only registered
                                                                                                                                                                   Management and Budget (OMB)
                                                    THJ–2201 have no currently accepted                     manufacturers would continue to be
                                                                                                                                                                   pursuant to section 3(d)(1) of Executive
                                                    medical use in treatment in the United                  permitted to manufacture AB–
                                                                                                                                                                   Order 12866 and the principles
                                                    States; and                                             CHMINACA, AB–PINACA or THJ–2201                        reaffirmed in Executive Order 13563.
                                                       3. There is a lack of accepted safety                in accordance with a quota assigned
                                                    for use of AB–CHMINACA, AB–                             pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 826 and in                       Executive Order 12988
                                                    PINACA and THJ–2201 under medical                       accordance with 21 CFR part 1303.                         This proposed regulation meets the
                                                    supervision.                                               5. Inventory. Any person who                        applicable standards set forth in
                                                       Based on these findings, the                         becomes registered with the DEA on or                  sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive
                                                    Administrator of the DEA concludes                      after the effective date of the final rule             Order 12988 to eliminate drafting errors
                                                    that N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-                  must take an initial inventory of all                  and ambiguity, minimize litigation,
                                                    yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-                 stocks of controlled substances                        provide a clear legal standard for
                                                    carboxamide (AB–CHMINACA), N-(1-                        (including AB–CHMINACA, AB–                            affected conduct, and promote
                                                    amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-                      PINACA and THJ–2201) on hand on the                    simplification and burden reduction.
                                                    pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–                   date the registrant first engages in the
                                                                                                            handling of controlled substances                      Executive Order 13132
                                                    PINACA) and [1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-
                                                    indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-                             pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827 and 958, and                   This proposed rulemaking does not
                                                    yl)methanone (THJ–2201), including                      in accordance with 21 CFR 1304.03,                     have federalism implications warranting
                                                    their salts, isomers and salts of isomers,              1304.04, and 1304.11.                                  the application of Executive Order
                                                                                                               After the initial inventory, every DEA              13132. The proposed rule does not have
                                                    whenever the existence of such salts,
                                                                                                            registrant must take a new inventory of                substantial direct effects on the States,
                                                    isomers, and salts of isomers is possible,
                                                                                                            all stocks of controlled substances                    on the relationship between the national
                                                    warrant continued control in schedule I
                                                                                                            (including AB–CHMINACA, AB–                            government and the States, or the
                                                    of the CSA. 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1).
                                                                                                            PINACA and THJ–2201) on hand every                     distribution of power and
                                                    Requirements for Handling AB–                           two years, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 827                   responsibilities among the various
                                                    CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–                            and 958, and in accordance with 21 CFR                 levels of government.
                                                    2201                                                    1304.03, 1304.04, and 1304.11.
                                                                                                               6. Records and Reports. Every DEA                   Executive Order 13175
                                                      If this rule is finalized as proposed,
                                                                                                            registrant would continue to be required                  This proposed rule does not have
                                                    AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and
                                                                                                            to maintain records and submit reports                 tribal implications warranting the
                                                    THJ–2201 would continue 3 to be
                                                                                                            with respect to AB–CHMINACA, AB–                       application of Executive Order 13175. It
                                                    subject to the regulatory controls and
                                                                                                            PINACA and/or THJ–2201 pursuant to                     does not have substantial direct effects
                                                    administrative, civil, and criminal
                                                                                                            21 U.S.C. 827 and 958(e), and in                       on one or more Indian tribes, on the
                                                    sanctions applicable to the manufacture,
                                                                                                            accordance with 21 CFR parts 1304 and                  relationship between the Federal
                                                    distribution, dispensing, importing,
                                                                                                            1312.                                                  government and Indian tribes, or on the
                                                    exporting, research, and conduct of
                                                                                                               7. Order Forms. Every DEA registrant                distribution of power and
                                                    instructional activities, of schedule I
                                                                                                            who distributes AB–CHMINACA, AB–                       responsibilities between the Federal
                                                    substances including the following:
                                                                                                            PINACA or THJ–2201 would continue                      government and Indian tribes.
                                                      1. Registration. Any person who
                                                                                                            to be required to comply with the order
                                                    handles (manufactures, distributes,                                                                            Regulatory Flexibility Act
                                                                                                            form requirements, pursuant to 21
                                                    imports, exports, engages in research, or                                                                         The Administrator, in accordance
                                                                                                            U.S.C. 828, and 21 CFR part 1305.
                                                    conducts instructional activities or                       8. Importation and Exportation. All                 with the Regulatory Flexibility Act
                                                    chemical analysis with, or possesses)                   importation and exportation of AB–                     (RFA), 5 U.S.C. 601–602, has reviewed
                                                    AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA or THJ–                          CHMINACA, AB–PINACA or THJ–2201                        this proposed rule and by approving it
                                                    2201, or who desires to handle AB–                      would continue to need to be in                        certifies that it will not have a
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                                                    CHMINACA, AB–PINACA or THJ–2201,                        compliance with 21 U.S.C. 952, 953,                    significant economic impact on a
                                                    would continue to be required to be                     957, and 958, and in accordance with 21                substantial number of small entities. On
                                                    registered with the DEA to conduct such                 CFR part 1312.                                         January 30, 2015, the DEA published a
                                                    activities pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 822,                      9. Liability. Any activity involving                final order to temporarily place these
                                                      3 AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and THJ–2201
                                                                                                            AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA or THJ–                         three SCs into schedule I of the CSA
                                                    are currently subject to schedule I controls on a
                                                                                                            2201 not authorized by, or in violation                pursuant to the temporary scheduling
                                                    temporary basis, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 811(h). 80       of, the CSA or its implementing                        provisions of 21 U.S.C. 811(h). The DEA
                                                    FR 5042, Jan. 30, 2015.                                 regulations would continue to be                       estimates that all entities handling or


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                                                    8598                       Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 17 / Friday, January 27, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                    planning to handle AB–CHMINACA,                            Therefore, the DEA has concluded that                        information unless it displays a
                                                    AB–PINACA or THJ–2201 have already                         this proposed rule will not have a                           currently valid OMB control number.
                                                    established and implemented the                            significant effect on a substantial
                                                                                                                                                                            List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1308
                                                    systems and processes required to                          number of small entities.
                                                    handle AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA                                                                                             Administrative practice and
                                                                                                               Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
                                                    or THJ–2201. There are currently 25                                                                                     procedure, Drug traffic control,
                                                    registrations authorized to handle AB–                       In accordance with the Unfunded                            Reporting and recordkeeping
                                                    CHMINACA, AB–PINACA and/or THJ–                            Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) of 1995,                          requirements.
                                                    2201 specifically, as well as a number                     2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq., the DEA has                             For the reasons set out above, the DEA
                                                    of registered analytical labs that are                     determined and certifies that this action                    proposes to amend 21 CFR part 1308:
                                                    authorized to handle schedule I                            would not result in any Federal
                                                    controlled substances generally. These                     mandate that may result ‘‘in the                             PART 1308—SCHEDULES OF
                                                    25 registrations represent 18 entities, of                 expenditure by State, local, and tribal                      CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
                                                    which 8 are small entities. Therefore,                     governments, in the aggregate, or by the
                                                    the DEA estimates eight small entities                     private sector, of $100,000,000 or more                      ■ 1. The authority citation for 21 CFR
                                                    are affected by this proposed rule.                        (adjusted for inflation) in any one year                     part 1308 continues to read as follows:
                                                       A review of the 25 registrations                        * * *.’’ Therefore, neither a Small                            Authority: 21 U.S.C. 811, 812, 871(b),
                                                    indicates that all entities that currently                 Government Agency Plan nor any other                         unless otherwise noted.
                                                    handle AB–CHMINACA, AB–PINACA                              action is required under UMRA of 1995.
                                                    or THJ–2201 also handle other schedule                                                                                  ■ 2. In § 1308.11,
                                                    I controlled substances, and have                          Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995                              ■ a. Add new paragraphs (d)(59)
                                                    established and implemented (or                              This action does not impose a new                          through (61); and
                                                    maintain) the systems and processes                        collection of information under the                          ■ b. Remove paragraphs (h)(11) through
                                                    required to handle AB–CHMINACA,                            Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. 44                          (13); and
                                                    AB–PINACA or THJ–2201. Therefore,                          U.S.C. 3501–3521. This action would                          ■ c. Redesignate paragraphs (h)(14)
                                                    the DEA anticipates that this proposed                     not impose recordkeeping or reporting                        through (19) as (h)(11) through (16);
                                                    rule will impose minimal or no                             requirements on State or local                                 The additions to read as follows:
                                                    economic impact on any affected                            governments, individuals, businesses, or
                                                    entities; and thus, will not have a                        organizations. An agency may not                             § 1308.11     Schedule I.
                                                    significant economic impact on any of                      conduct or sponsor, and a person is not                      *       *    *         *       *
                                                    the eight affected small entities.                         required to respond to, a collection of                          (d) * * *

                                                    (59) N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–CHMINACA) ............................                            (7031)
                                                    (60) N-(1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1-pentyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (AB–PINACA) ......................................................                (7023)
                                                    (61) [1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazol-3-yl](naphthalen-1-yl)methanone (THJ–2201) .............................................................................   (7024)



                                                    *      *       *       *      *                              Dated: January 17, 2017.
                                                                                                               Chuck Rosenberg,
                                                                                                               Acting Administrator.
                                                                                                               [FR Doc. 2017–01514 Filed 1–26–17; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                               BILLING CODE 4410–09–P
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Document Created: 2017-01-27 00:10:52
Document Modified: 2017-01-27 00:10:52
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking.
DatesInterested persons may file written comments on this proposal in accordance with 21 CFR 1308.43(g). Comments must be submitted electronically or postmarked on or before February 27, 2017. Commenters should be aware that the electronic Federal Docket Management System will not accept comments after 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the last day of the comment period.
ContactMichael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
FR Citation82 FR 8593 
CFR AssociatedAdministrative Practice and Procedure; Drug Traffic Control and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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