Kratom legality is a hot topic in the Beehive State. In 2021, over 3.5 million Americans tried kratom for the first time. This botanical has taken Utah by storm, with many users touting its benefits. But confusion reigns over its legal status. So, is kratom legal in Utah?
A Brief History of Kratom in Utah
Kratom has a long history of traditional use overseas. Indigenous peoples in Southeast Asia have consumed its leaves for centuries. They would brew them into teas and tonics to relieve fatigue.
The herb only reached Western markets in the last 20 years. Its popularity exploded once it arrived in the United States. This caused some lawmakers to grow concerned.
In 2016, Utah introduced a bill banning kratom possession and sale. Supporters killed the bill, keeping kratom legal. But its legality remains murky.
The Legal Grey Area Surrounding Kratom
Kratom exists in a legal purgatory in Utah. Let’s examine a few key facts about its status:
- Kratom is legal at the federal level. The Drug Enforcement Administration has not banned its compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. But they remain on the DEA’s list of “drugs of concern.”
- In 2016, Utah lawmakers abandoned a proposed kratom ban. This bill would have scheduled kratom as a controlled substance. Its removal left kratom unregulated.
- Salt Lake County banned kratom in 2019. This includes a penalty of up to 6 months jail time and $1,000 fine. But the rest of Utah did not follow suit.
- Multiple Utah municipalities have banned sales. For example, the cities of Sandy and Pleasant Grove prohibit kratom sales. But possession remains legal.
- Tainted kratom has caused a few overdose deaths. Additives like fentanyl, not kratom itself, were responsible. Still, this contributed to negative perceptions of kratom.
This confusing medley of laws leaves most Utahns wondering – is kratom illegal or legal?
The Debate Around Kratom in Utah
Utah legislators remain divided on how to address kratom:
- Supporters say it could help the opioid crisis. Advocates argue kratom is a safer painkiller. It may help recovering addicts avoid relapse.
- Skeptics cite safety concerns. Opponents like Utah County Attorney David Leavitt claim kratom carries risk of addiction and overdose. They want tighter regulations to protect consumers.
- Kratom businesses favor self-regulation. The industry formed the American Kratom Association (AKA) in 2014. The AKA offers GMP standards to ensure purity.
- Lawmakers consider new legislation each year. Bills alternately propose banning, regulating, or leaving kratom alone. None have found consensus.
This lack of clarity has left kratom floating in a gray zone. Most law enforcement agencies in Utah will not pursue kratom possession alone. But proactive users should understand local statutes.
The Bottom Line – Is Kratom Legal in Utah?
The legality of kratom remains complex in Utah. Here’s a quick summary:
- Kratom is legal at the federal level, but some agencies have concerns.
- A statewide ban failed in 2016, leaving kratom’s status unclear.
- Individual counties and towns have enacted bans, especially on sales.
- Possession itself seems to be legal for adults outside of select areas.
- But laws remain contradictory and subject to change via new legislation.
Kratom consumers in Utah should research local laws. Possessing pure, unadulterated kratom seems permissible for now. Yet the future legal status remains uncertain. State officials continue debating tighter control or allowing consumers to access this botanical.
Stay tuned to the latest kratom legality developments in the Beehive State. And consider getting involved locally to support keeping kratom legal in Utah!
