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House approves kratom regulation bill after sponsor says state must step in
Summary
The House passed a substitute to Senate Bill 58 to regulate kratom sales and require Department of Agriculture registration and testing, with supporters citing public-safety risks from adulterated products; the measure passed 39-34.
The Utah House voted to approve a substitute to Senate Bill 58 on Feb. 28, enacting a regulatory framework for kratom—a plant-based product with reported analgesic properties that, sponsors said, has been sold and adulterated in some retail outlets.
Representative Dott, presenting the bill, described kratom as ‘‘a plant … which can be processed into, you know, a medicinal type thing,’’ and said the substitute mirrors regulatory language previously used for CBD. The measure requires registrants to verify purity and form, and gives the Department of Agriculture authority to remove adulterated products from shelves.
Dott argued the bill balances potential therapeutic benefits and public-safety concerns, saying the state must provide oversight because neither the Food and Drug Administration nor the Drug Enforcement Administration has regulated the substance. Representative Brammer asked whether the bill permits kratom to be manufactured in Utah; the sponsor confirmed it would create a regulatory framework that allows in-state manufacture.
After limited floor discussion and a summation waiver, the House closed voting; the clerk announced the substitute passed with 39 yes votes and 34 no votes. The bill will be signed by the speaker and returned to the Senate for the president’s signature.
Supporters emphasized regulation to prevent adulteration and protect consumers; opponents expressed concern about scope and enforcement. The bill’s language was described on the floor as largely adapted from earlier CBD rules.
