SACRAMENTO— Today, Assemblymember Alanis announced that his bill, AB 1612, directing the California Department of Justice to establish statewide procedures for the safe disposal of seized dangerous drugs, passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and now advances to the Assembly Floor for a full vote.
California law enforcement agencies are seizing growing amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and other hazardous narcotics, yet many agencies lack clear guidance on how those substances should be stored, transported, and destroyed once they are no longer needed as evidence. The issue has become more urgent following the closure of California’s last in-state incinerator in 2024, leaving law enforcement agencies and medical professionals with limited disposal options. As a result, some agencies have been forced to store narcotics for extended periods, transport them out of state, or rely on unsafe and inconsistent disposal practices.
“Right now, agencies across California are being forced to navigate this issue without a clear statewide standard,” said Assemblymember Alanis. “These are highly dangerous substances, and the lack of consistent guidance creates unnecessary risks for officers, evidence personnel, healthcare workers, and communities. AB 1612 brings structure and accountability to a problem that is only going to get worse.”
Under current law, controlled substances must be destroyed once they are no longer needed as evidence, but hazardous waste and environmental regulations have made lawful disposal increasingly difficult. AB 1612 requires the Department of Justice to develop clear regulations and guidance to help agencies safely and legally manage the disposal process while complying with public safety and environmental laws.
“As a former law enforcement officer, I understand the dangers that come with prolonged storage of these narcotics,” Alanis added. “This bill ensures agencies have clear direction from the state so they can safely handle disposal while protecting both public safety and the environment.”
AB 1612 now heads to the Assembly Floor for consideration by the full State Assembly.
Assemblymember Juan Alanis represents the 22nd Assembly District, which includes the communities of Modesto, Turlock, Ceres, Denair, Patterson, Gustine, Newman, Hilmar, Ballico, Snelling, Keyes, Grayson, Crows Landing, Diablo Grande, Stevinson, & Empire.
