US SB331

Permanently places fentanyl-related substances as a class into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, covering any compound structurally related to fentanyl through specified chemical modifications

Creates expedited research registration procedures allowing researchers with existing Schedule I or II registrations to begin work on Schedule I substances 30 days after notifying the Attorney General, or 45 days for new researchers

Eliminates separate registration requirements for research employees at the same institution and allows single registrations for multiple research sites within the same city or county under the same organization

Applies the same criminal penalties for fentanyl-related substances as for fentanyl analogues: 10 years to life for 400+ grams (or 100+ grams with death/serious injury), and 5-40 years for 40+ grams

Requires the Attorney General to issue implementing rules within 6 months, with amendments taking effect immediately upon enactment; requires DOJ Inspector General report on fentanyl research within 1 year