House committee rejects bill to legalize kratom after public‑health and law‑enforcement testimony

Senate Bill 534, a proposal to legalize sale and possession of kratom (a botanical product derived from Mitragyna speciosa), was considered by the House Public Health Committee and failed after a motion of "do not pass." Supporters described the substance as relief for chronic pain and an alternative to opioids; opponents, including coroners and the Department of Health, warned about toxicology, adulteration and overdoses.

Proponent testimony cited recreational and therapeutic uses and noted that other states have passed regulatory frameworks. "My friend tried kratom and it worked great," Representative Long said in committee. Sponsors urged the committee to regulate rather than criminalize the product.

Sling County Coroner Kevin Cleghorn and Department of Health witnesses described public‑safety concerns. "We are seeing kratom being taken out of these residences," Cleghorn said, citing investigations and deaths where kratom was present. The Department of Health noted contamination reports (salmonella, heavy metals), chemical variability including elevated levels of the metabolite 7‑hydroxymitragynine, lack of federal authorization as a dietary supplement, and enforcement challenges for online or out‑of‑state processors.

Witnesses discussed labeling, age limits and penalty levels in the draft. The health department also told the committee the governor's office opposed the bill and that past state reviews had repeatedly concluded maintenance of the status quo was appropriate after an eight‑factor analysis.

After brief debate, committee members adopted a motion of "do not pass." The chair announced the motion carried and the bill failed to advance.