Senate revives House Bill 1566 for kratom regulation study amid ongoing discussions

During a recent Senate Appropriations meeting held on April 10, 2025, significant discussions centered around House Bill 1566, which proposes regulations for kratom, a supplement known for its pain-relieving properties. The meeting highlighted the ongoing debate regarding the safety and regulation of kratom, which is commonly sold in smoke shops and convenience stores across North Dakota.

Initially, the House had transformed the bill into a study, reflecting concerns about the supplement's regulation. However, the Senate's Energy and Natural Resources Committee later revived the bill, only for it to be reverted back to a study by the Human Resources Subdivision. This back-and-forth indicates a lack of consensus on how to approach kratom's regulation, with some committee members expressing limited knowledge about the substance.

Senator Magram, who shared personal experiences with kratom, emphasized its effectiveness as a pain reliever, particularly for those with allergies to traditional pain medications like aspirin. He noted that there have been no reported adverse effects from kratom among committee members, which may have influenced the decision to delay more stringent regulatory measures.

The original proposal included adding two full-time employees to the Agriculture Department to oversee kratom sales, but this aspect was also set aside in favor of further study. The committee's motion to amend House Bill 1566 reflects a cautious approach to regulation, prioritizing additional research over immediate legislative action.

As the discussions continue, the future of kratom regulation in North Dakota remains uncertain. The decision to revert to a study suggests that lawmakers are seeking more information before making any definitive regulatory changes. This ongoing dialogue underscores the complexities surrounding the regulation of supplements and the need for informed decision-making in public health matters.