Kratom in Florida – Latest Legality News

Starting July 1, 2023, the state of Florida will implement the “Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act,” making it unlawful to sell kratom products to individuals under the age of 21. Governor Ron DeSantis recently authorized this legislation to regulate the sale of kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia known for its euphoric pain-relieving properties. This article discusses the details of the new law and the potential consequences for violating it.

Kratom in Florida – 2023

Understanding the Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act

The “Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act” (HB 179) has been signed into law by Governor DeSantis. This legislation specifically defines “kratom products” and prohibits their sale to individuals under 21 years old. By enacting this law, Florida aims to ensure consumer safety and protect young individuals from potential risks associated with kratom consumption.

Penalties for Selling Kratom to Minors

Effective from July 1, anyone found selling kratom products to customers under 21 years old will face legal consequences. Violators will be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of up to $500 and a maximum jail term of 60 days.

The Benefits and Risks of Kratom Use

Kratom has gained popularity for its purported benefits as a versatile alternative to more harmful and addictive substances such as alcohol. A study conducted by Purdue University found that kratom may help decrease alcohol intake, although it carries risks when used for prolonged periods. It is essential to consider potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, upset stomach, drowsiness, dizziness, and agitation, associated with kratom use.

Regulation of Kratom in Other States

While Florida takes steps to regulate kratom, it's worth noting that several states have already implemented their own regulations. Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin have banned kratom entirely. Sarasota is the only local government in Florida that has enforced a complete ban on kratom. Read more about the current legality status of kratom in your state.

Legislative Background and Future Considerations

Representative Alex Andrade introduced the “Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act” (HB 179) in the 2023 Legislative Session, gaining approval from both chambers of the Legislature. Another similar bill (SB 136) was proposed by Senator Joe Gruters. Although Gruters attempted to align the language of the bills, Andrade rejected the amendments due to associated costs. Both legislators express a willingness to continue working on consumer protection measures in the future.

Conclusion:

Florida's new “Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act” will prohibit the sale of kratom products to individuals under the age of 21 starting next month. This legislation aims to regulate the consumption of kratom and protect young individuals from potential risks. Violators of the law will face legal penalties. Stay informed about the evolving regulations surrounding kratom and its use in Florida.

Key Details About the Kratom Law in Florida

The law went into effect on July 1, 2023.
Anyone who sells kratom to a minor is guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor.
Penalties for violating the law include a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 60 days in jail.
Kratom products must be labeled with the following information:
- The name and address of the manufacturer or distributor
- The net weight or volume of the product
- The active ingredients in the product
- The recommended dosage
- Any known risks or side effects associated with the product

Florida Kratom Laws: A Timeline of Events

Kratom Legality in Florida 2023

June 2: Governor Ron DeSantis signs SB 1076 into law.
April 25: The House passes SB 1076 by a vote of 116-2.
April 11: The House Committee on Criminal Justice votes 12-2 to approve SB 1076.
March 28: The Senate passes SB 1076 by a vote of 38-0.
March 21: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services votes 11-0 to approve SB 1076.
March 14: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services holds a hearing on SB 1076.
March 8: Senator Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) files Senate Bill 1076, which would ban the sale of kratom to Floridians under 21 and put in place a series of quality-control regulations around kratom products.

Kratom Legality in Florida 2022

December 25: A kratom-themed Christmas tree was displayed at the Florida Capitol as a symbol of gratitude and solidarity among kratom users.
November 8: Several candidates who supported kratom regulation or prohibition lost their seats in the midterm elections.
October 31: A Halloween-themed kratom festival was held in Tampa Bay to celebrate the plant and raise funds for kratom research.
September 12: A survey by the Florida Department of Health revealed that kratom use increased by 15% among adults aged 18 and over since last year.
June 15: A new study by the University of Florida showed that kratom has potential therapeutic benefits for opioid withdrawal and pain management.
July 1: The effective date of SB 1076 if it had passed.
April 30: Another bill seeking to restrict kratom (HB 1071) also died in the Regulatory Reform Subcommittee.
March 14: SB 1076 died in Appropriations.
March 12: SB 1076 was indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration.
January 18: A Florida Senate committee advanced a proposal (SB 1076: Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act) that would ban the sale of kratom to Floridians younger than 21 and put in place a series of quality-control regulations around kratom products.