In a significant move by Kentucky legislators, a bill aiming to regulate the sale and use of kratom has received unanimous support from a state House committee. Kratom, an herbal substance known for its opioid-like and stimulant effects, is currently legal and widely available across the United States, including in gas stations and convenience stores.
House Bill 293, championed by Rep. Kim Moser, R-Taylor Mill, proposes tighter regulations on kratom within Kentucky without imposing a total ban. The bill emerges as a compromise amidst divided opinions on kratom’s benefits and risks. While some advocate for its ban due to potential addiction and health risks, others argue for its positive effects on conditions such as anxiety, pain, and PTSD.
Key provisions of the bill include restricting kratom sales to individuals over 21, mandating clear labeling on kratom products to specify ingredients, recommended serving sizes, distributor information, and a disclaimer regarding the treatment of medical conditions. Violations of the law would result in fines, emphasizing the bill’s role as a consumer protection measure.
This legislative effort mirrors a similar approach taken by Kentucky to regulate delta-8 last year. With the Department of Public Health poised to administer the law upon approval, the bill now awaits the full endorsement of the House of Representatives.
Kratom, derived from the tropical tree Mitragyna speciosa in Southeast Asia, has been a subject of controversy in the U.S., where it is legal but considered a “drug of concern” by the DEA. Despite its legal status, the FDA warns against its use for opioid addiction treatment due to unproven efficacy and potential health risks.
For more details on this developing story, read the full article on the Louisville Courier Journal.
