HB234 Alabama 2019 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Mike Holmes
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2019
Title: Controlled substances, relating to Schedule II, adding certain named chemical compounds of Tianeptine, Sec. 20-2-25 am'd.
Summary: HB 234 would add certain Tianeptine compounds to Alabama’s Schedule II controlled substances and establish penalties for possession and distribution.
What This Bill Does
The bill adds Tianeptine compounds to Schedule II, making possession, distribution, and trafficking illegal. It notes that if Tianeptine is ever approved by the FDA for human medical use, it could be legally prescribed under Schedule II rules. The bill includes language about local funding rules under Amendment 621, but it states the bill is exempt from those requirements because it creates a new crime or amends an existing crime. It becomes effective on the first day of the third month after the Governor signs it.

Who It Affects
Individuals who possess, distribute, or traffic Tianeptine compounds would face criminal penalties for possession and distribution.
Medical professionals and patients could potentially access Tianeptine legally in the future if the FDA approves it for human medical use.

Key Provisions
Adds Tianeptine and related salts/derivatives to Schedule II of the Alabama Controlled Substances list.
Makes possession, distribution, and trafficking of these compounds unlawful, with criminal penalties for distribution.
States that placing Tianeptine on Schedule II would allow for future medical prescription if FDA approval is granted.
Section 2 notes the bill is exempt from Amendment 621 requirements because it creates a new crime or amends the definition of an existing crime.
Section 3 sets the effective date as the first day of the third month following the Governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Controlled Substances