Montana is grappling with how to regulate kratom, a plant-based substance marketed as a mood and energy enhancer with potential for addiction. With no federal oversight, the state is acting to address supply chain issues and safeguard consumers.
The “Kratom Consumer Protection Act,” drafted by the American Kratom Association, is under consideration in the Montana Legislature. The act seeks to ban sales to those under 18 and limit the products labeled as “kratom” based on the concentration of specific chemical elements. Other states have passed similar industry-supported legislation.
Concerns remain about whether the proposed bill prioritizes public health or commercial interests. According to a report by NBC Montana, the bill’s success depends on the state’s capacity to regulate the industry and the integrity of retailers in product testing and advertising.