As New York continues to confront the devastating opioid epidemic, a newly emerging synthetic opioid known as cychlorphine serves as another reminder that dangerous drugs are evolving faster than our ability to detect them.

Over the past decade, communities across New York have witnessed wave after wave of increasingly potent synthetic opioids—from fentanyl to nitazenes, xylazine and now cychlorphine. While these substances differ chemically, they all present the same challenge: hospitals, first responders and public health officials are often forced to respond before they know exactly what they are treating. By the time a new drug is identified and understood, lives have already been lost.

That is why Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) introduced the Identify Dangerous Drugs Act (A.2012). The legislation would direct the New York State Department of Health to conduct a statewide study using advanced laboratory technology to identify new and previously unseen opioid compounds found in overdose patients. The findings would help develop updated treatment recommendations and emergency room protocols so health care providers can better respond to emerging threats.

“One of the greatest challenges facing our health care system is that the illicit drug supply changes constantly,” said Meghan Hurlburt, chief of staff to Assemblyman Brian Maher. “Doctors and first responders cannot effectively treat what they cannot identify. Assemblyman Maher’s legislation recognizes that we need better information, better data and better coordination if we’re going to stay ahead of these dangerous synthetic opioids. The goal is simple: identify new drugs sooner so medical professionals have the tools they need to save lives.”

Unlike standard toxicology screens used in many emergency departments, the advanced testing outlined in the legislation would be capable of identifying emerging opioid compounds that often go undetected. The Department of Health would publish its findings, allowing hospitals, emergency physicians, toxicologists, law enforcement and public health officials to better understand what substances are circulating throughout New York and how best to respond.

Hurlburt emphasized that combating the opioid epidemic requires a coordinated effort among hospitals, law enforcement, addiction treatment providers, recovery organizations, local nonprofits, schools and community leaders.

“The opioid crisis is not standing still, and neither can we,” Hurlburt said. “Every new synthetic opioid reinforces the importance of working together. Better research leads to better treatment. Better communication leads to better prevention. And stronger partnerships between our health care providers, first responders, community organizations and families will ultimately save lives.”

Assemblyman Maher remains committed to advancing practical, evidence-based solutions that strengthen New York’s response to the evolving opioid epidemic and provide health care professionals with the resources they need to protect patients and communities.