Rep. Rhyne files bill in North Carolina House updating controlled substances classifications

A new bill filed by State Rep. Heather H. Rhyne in the North Carolina House seeks to update the Controlled Substances Act to cover emerging synthetic drugs and new chemical compounds, according to the North Carolina State House.

The bill, filed as HB 330 on March 6 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Controlled Substances Act – Updates.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill updates the Controlled Substances Act to include new classifications and specific chemical compounds under various drug categories. It adds several opiates and opioids, including unique isomers and derivatives of AP-237 and U-47700, among others. The bill defines and lists fentanyl derivatives, adding compounds like 2-fluorofentanyl. It introduces nitazene derivatives, specifying structural modifications such as benzimidazole derivatives. The bill also revises classifications for synthetic cannabinoids and substituted cathinones, detailing structural aspects that define these substances. It updates certain chemical names, introduces bromazolam under controlled categories, and revises the language for existing substances to ensure clarity and comprehensive regulatory coverage of emerging synthetic drugs. The act is effective upon becoming law.

Of the four sponsors of this bill, Charles W. Miller proposed the most bills (22) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Rhyne graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998.

Rhyne, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State House in 2024 to represent the state’s 97th House district, replacing previous state representative Jason Saine.