Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-13825
DEA Proposes Regulation of Phenethyl Halides as List I Chemicals
Buyer
Drug Enforcement Administration
Posted
July 09, 2026
Respond By
August 10, 2026
Identifier
2026-13825
This opportunity concerns a proposed regulatory action by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regarding chemical controls: - Government Buyer: - Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Department of Justice - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the regulation impacts all manufacturers, distributors, importers, and exporters of phenethyl halides - Products/Services Requested: - Regulation targets the following chemicals as List I chemicals: - Phenethyl bromide (part number: Phenethyl bromide) - Phenethyl chloride (part number: Phenethyl chloride) - Phenethyl iodide (part number: Phenethyl iodide) - Phenethyl fluoride (part number: Phenethyl fluoride) - No procurement of goods or services is being requested; this is a regulatory action - Unique or Notable Requirements: - All transactions involving phenethyl halides, regardless of size or concentration, will be regulated - Entities handling these chemicals must register with the DEA and comply with recordkeeping, reporting, and security requirements - The DEA has identified 120 domestic suppliers, most of whom are not currently registered to handle List I chemicals - The rule is intended to reduce diversion of these chemicals for illicit fentanyl production while minimizing impact on legitimate pharmaceutical manufacturing - The DEA is seeking public input on legitimate uses of phenethyl halides in industry, commerce, academia, and research
Description
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is proposing to control phenethyl halides as List I chemicals under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Phenethyl halides are important precursors in the illicit manufacture of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and related substances. The proposed rule would regulate all transactions of phenethyl halides, regardless of size or concentration, subjecting handlers to chemical regulatory provisions. Comments on the proposal must be submitted by August 10, 2026.