Utah lawmakers are considering a ban on kratom, a substance that is sold in gas stations and vape shops, due to its addictive properties and associated withdrawal issues. Kratom, derived from a tree native to Southeast Asia, is often used by individuals to self-treat various conditions such as pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal, as noted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, its increasing popularity, particularly in energy drink form and capsules, has raised alarm among state officials. Senate Majority Assistant Whip Mike McKell has proposed a bill to repeal the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which was passed in 2019, that established a regulatory framework for kratom products in Utah. The new bill would classify alkaloids found in kratom as Schedule I controlled substances, the same category as heroin and ecstasy, effectively banning kratom in the state. The Health and Human Services Interim Committee voted unanimously in November to fast-track this bill for the upcoming legislative session, with the potential for Utah to become the 10th state to ban kratom. McKell highlighted concerns over the safety of kratom products, demonstrating $500 worth of kratom he purchased and had tested, which were within the state legal limits. Despite this, he emphasized the dangers of the substance. Michael Moss, director of the Utah Poison Control Center, reported that a compound found in kratom, known as 7OH, is becoming purified for consumption and is significantly more potent than morphine. In recent years, reports of kratom-related emergencies have increased, with emergency room physicians noting cases of kratom withdrawal and related health issues. Over the past five years, 158 fatal overdoses involving kratom have been recorded, with a noticeable rise in kratom-only deaths in the past year. Areas with higher incidences of kratom-related overdoses include the Southwest Health District and Provo. Another legislative effort led by Sen. Evan Vickers aims to address the concerns surrounding 7OH specifically, proposing to categorize it as a Schedule I substance with some exceptions. The ongoing discussions reflect growing concern over the health implications of kratom use in Utah.