Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF367

Introduced
2/19/25  

Caption

A bill for an act designating kratom as a schedule I controlled substance, and making penalties applicable.

Impact

The enactment of SF367 would significantly alter the legal landscape regarding the use and possession of kratom within the state. Given its new classification, offenders could face fines and possible incarceration, which would discourage the use of kratom among Iowa residents. This bill mirrors actions taken in other states that have moved to tighten regulations on similar substances, suggesting a trend towards greater scrutiny of natural products considered to have psychoactive properties.

Summary

Senate File 367 aims to classify kratom, derived from the plant Mitragyna speciosa, as a Schedule I controlled substance in Iowa. This categorization aligns kratom with other substances considered highly controlled due to their potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. The bill outlines the legal parameters regarding possession, establishing severe penalties for violations. Specifically, first-time offenders would face a serious misdemeanor charge, while repeated offenses could escalate to aggravated misdemeanors or even class D felonies depending on the number of prior convictions.

Contention

Debate surrounding the bill is likely to focus on its potential implications for users of kratom, often cited for its purported benefits such as pain relief and anxiety reduction. Proponents argue that regulating kratom is essential for public health and safety, citing concerns over its unregulated use and possible health risks. Conversely, opponents contend that placing kratom into the strictest category of controlled substances may limit access for individuals who find it beneficial for managing pain or opioid withdrawal symptoms, thus igniting discussions about personal choice, regulatory overreach, and medical autonomy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF2339

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 3021.)

IA SSB3021

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 2339.)

IA HSB544

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 2166.)

IA HF2166

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 544.) Effective date: 05/01/2024.

IA SF125

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1041.)

IA SSB1041

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 125.)

IA HSB25

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 128.)

IA HF128

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 25.) Effective date: 05/03/2023.

IA HF2052

A bill for an act relating to persons under the influence of controlled substances in public places, and providing penalties.

IA HF2321

A bill for an act relating to assaults on persons engaged in certain occupations including a health care provider, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HSB 573.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.