 |
|
6/6/2024
|
House approves Edwards bill that would regulate the distribution of kratom
|
STATE HOUSE — The House of Representatives today approved legislation introduced by Rep. John G. Edwards (D-Dist. 70, Tiverton) that would regulate the distribution of kratom, a natural substance grown primarily in Indonesia, that is used by people to overcome opioid addiction, withdrawal, and to treat anxiety, depression and other ailments.
The Kratom Consumer Protection Act (2024-H 7231Aaa) would ban the adulteration of kratom with a dangerous non-kratom substance as to render the product injurious to a consumer. The act would require that any kratom product contain adequate labeling directions necessary for safe and effective use by consumers.
“Kratom, which is used by about 15 million Americans, is being bought out of state and used by Rhode Islanders,” said Representative Edwards. “Given the wide availability of the substance, we want to make sure that the product is safe, unadulterated and not mixed with other substances. The bill would also prevent retailers from selling kratom to anyone below the age of 21 and establish fines for those who violate the law.”
A person who violates the provisions of the act would be subject to a fine of not more than $500 for the first offense and not more than $1,000 for a second or subsequent offense. The bill also subjects kratom to the state’s sales and use tax. With the passage of this legislation, Rhode Island would join 45 other states that have laws allowing the distribution and use of kratom.
The measure now moves to the Senate, where similar legislation (2024-S 2704) has been introduced by Sen. Hanna M. Gallo (D-Dist. 27, Cranston, West Warwick).
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
|
|