**Government Takes Control of Narcotics and Psychotropics in Georgia**
The Georgian Parliament is moving quickly to approve a new law that will give the state complete control over the importation and distribution of narcotics and psychotropic substances. This change aims to regulate these substances tightly, making sure they are only used for medical purposes.
According to the draft of this new law, only government-established entities or those under direct state control can import these drugs. The Ministry of Health also has the power to grant permission to other companies if it’s deemed necessary. However, providing opioid substitution therapy will be strictly a job for the state and its institutions.
The proposed law sets deadlines for all parties involved. Pharmaceutical distributors who deal with controlled substances must transfer their existing stocks to a state-run entity by March 1, 2026. This way, these drugs won’t fall into the wrong hands. Also, healthcare services providing opioid substitution therapy will need to ensure continuity of treatment by the same deadline.
Interestingly, the new law includes an exemption for entities established or managed by the state until January 1, 2029. This is part of the plan to give them time to adjust and comply with the new regulations without immediate penalties.
**Who’s Behind This Move?**
The draft law was initiated by members from Georgian Dream and People’s Power parties in Parliament. These political entities are pushing for this change, emphasizing the need for tighter control over narcotics and psychotropics to prevent misuse.
**What Does It Mean?**
This new law essentially transfers all authority related to narcotics, psychotropic substances, and opioid substitution therapy directly to the state or its approved entities. This aims to ensure that these substances are used only as prescribed medically and not for illicit purposes. The timeline set out in the draft law is critical, with deadlines looming ahead of 2026.
**Why Now?**
The government’s push to take control over the distribution of narcotics and psychotropics comes at a time when there’s growing concern about substance abuse worldwide. By regulating these substances tightly, Georgia hopes to prevent misuse and ensure that treatment is available for those who need it.
