Bill would place kratom compounds in a restricted drug schedule

The bill would list kratom alkaloids and kratom alkaloid derivatives as schedule I controlled substances. The listing would cover kratom alkaloids and derivatives, including synthetic and semisynthetic forms, their chemical variations, and six named compounds. The listing would apply unless a substance is specifically exempted or listed in another schedule. The listing would take effect when the Act is filed with the secretary of state.

The bill would set criminal penalties for intentionally taking or possessing kratom alkaloids or kratom alkaloid derivatives. The rules would apply to anyone who intentionally ingests, inhales, injects, or otherwise takes kratom into the body, or willfully possesses it without an allowed prescription, order, or other legal authorization. Taking kratom would be an infraction for a first offense and a class A misdemeanor for a second or later offense. Possessing kratom would be an infraction for a first offense, a class A misdemeanor for a second offense, and a class C felony for a third or later offense. The possession rules would not apply when the substance was obtained through a valid practitioner prescription or order, or as otherwise allowed by law. These penalties would take effect when the Act is filed with the secretary of state.