Possible Control of Red Phosphorus as a Listed Chemical

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), provides the Attorney General Authority to specify by regulation, additional precursor and essential chemicals as "listed chemicals" if they are used in the manufacture of controlled substances in violation of the CSA. This notice provides advance notification that the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is considering the possible control of red phosphorus as a listed chemical. Red phosphorus has been identified as being an important chemical used in the illicit production of methamphetamine. DEA is considering whether CSA chemical regulatory controls (such as registration, recordkeeping, reporting, and import/export requirements) are necessary to prevent the diversion of red phosphorus to clandestine drug laboratories. Prior to deciding whether to control red phosphorus as a listed chemical, the DEA is seeking information on red phosphorus trade so that diversion of red phosphorous may be prevented with minimal impact on legitimate trade. The DEA is soliciting information on the manufacturing, distribution, consumption, storage, disposal, and uses of red phosphorus.