House committee hears H 864 to classify kratom alkaloids as Schedule I

The House Health & Welfare Committee heard testimony on H 864 on March 18, 2026, which would amend Idaho's Uniform Controlled Substance Act to classify alkaloids derived from Mitragyna speciosa (commonly called kratom) as Schedule I controlled substances. Rep. Mike Pohanka (District 26) and Rep. Erin Bingham (District 32) presented the bill and told the committee the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved kratom as a dietary supplement or for medical use and that the substances act on opioid receptors.

Supporters including Shante Sanchez, coroner of Bonneville County, and Samuel Hulse, sheriff (Bonneville County/Idaho Sheriff's Association), said deaths linked to natural kratom products showed no indication of the synthetic 7‑OH compound and argued that growing use and overdose reports justify a ban. Opponents — including recovery providers, business owners and several users — countered that kratom has been used for centuries, that studies on kratom purity exist, and that a total ban could criminalize people using the product for chronic pain. Dr. Crystal Pyrak of the Idaho Academy of Family Physicians testified from a neutral position and recommended education, clear labeling and testing instead of an immediate ban.

Because of time constraints the committee carried H 864 and the remaining bills to a continuation on March 19, 2026, at 8:00 a.m.; testimony signed up for March 18 will be heard then and no new testimony will be accepted. The committee adjourned at 10:18 a.m.