Idaho Capitol Watch

House Health & Welfare Committee - Mar 18, 2026 - March 18, 2026

House Health and Welfare Committee heard extensive testimony on HB 864 to ban Kratom as Schedule I. Sponsors cited overdose deaths and addiction risks; opp

House Health and Welfare Committee heard extensive testimony on HB 864 to ban Kratom as Schedule I. Sponsors cited overdose deaths and addiction risks; opponents advocated regulation over ban, distinguishing natural leaf from synthetics like 7-OH. Session adjourned for continuati

Key topics

  • House Bill 864
  • Kratom Schedule I ban
  • Overdose deaths
  • Addiction risks
  • Regulation vs prohibition

Session highlights

  • Committee called to order by Chairman Vander Woude.
  • Sponsor Rep. Polanka introduces HB 864 to ban Kratom Schedule I.
  • Co-sponsor Rep. Bingham details overdose stats and expert support.
  • Treatment provider reports 225% increase in Kratom addiction cases.
  • Retailer Andrea Jackson defends 15 years safe natural Kratom sales.

Bills discussed

Duration: 1h 18m ยท 8 participants

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Canonical URL: https://idahocapitolwatch.com/sessions/ses_m26026