Representative Xiarhos Appointed to Xylazine Commission

March 24, 2025

BOSTON – House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) has appointed State Representative Steven George Xiarhos (R-Barnstable) to a special legislative commission tasked with addressing the growing public health and safety concerns surrounding xylazine.

Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer that has been used by licensed veterinarians since 1971. However, its increasing presence in illicit drug mixtures has alarmed law enforcement and public health officials. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), “Fentanyl is increasingly being mixed with the veterinary sedative xylazine (‘tranq’), which continues to be detected in the state’s street drug supply and was present in 9 percent of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023, up from 5 percent in 2022.” In addition to slowing breathing and heart rates, xylazine exposure can cause severe skin abscesses and ulcers, sometimes leading to amputation.

Representative Xiarhos is one of 13 members serving on the Xylazine Commission, which was created as part of the recently signed substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure bill. The commission will explore ways to strengthen oversight of xylazine’s production and distribution, ensuring that it remains strictly for veterinary use. It will also examine whether xylazine should be classified as a controlled substance and assess appropriate penalties for its illegal production and distribution. Additionally, members will evaluate the availability of outreach and treatment programs for individuals exposed to xylazine and identify gaps in existing services. The commission is required to submit its findings and recommendations by June 30, 2025.

A former Deputy Chief of Police in Yarmouth, Representative Xiarhos brings over 40 years of law enforcement experience to the commission. He has a deep understanding of the dangers posed by illicit drugs and their devastating impact on communities. His career has included direct involvement in drug enforcement, community outreach, and policy development.

“Having spent over 40 years in law enforcement, I understand the severity of the public health risks posed by drugs like xylazine, which are wreaking havoc on our communities,” said Representative Xiarhos. “I’m honored to serve on this commission and will work tirelessly to develop solutions that help prevent the misuse of this drug and protect the people of Massachusetts. As a member of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee, I’m deeply committed to advancing public safety and health, and I will bring that dedication to this important task.”

“The misuse of xylazine represents a significant public health and safety threat,” said Representative Jones. “Rep. Xiarhos’ law enforcement background will aid the commission’s efforts to develop recommendations to help stop xylazine abuse before it claims more lives. I am pleased to be able to appoint him to serve on this special commission and I look forward to receiving the commission’s report and recommendations this summer.”

First elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 2020, Representative Xiarhos is currently serving his third term representing the 5th Barnstable District, which includes the Town of Sandwich and portions of Barnstable and Bourne.

###