The bill amends the Revised Code to establish a regulatory framework for the sale and distribution of kratom products in Ohio. It introduces definitions for "kratom," "kratom product," and related terms, and mandates that food processing establishments must register kratom products with the director of agriculture. The legislation sets forth safety and labeling requirements, prohibiting the sale of kratom products that contain controlled substances, exceed specified levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine, or include synthetic compounds not naturally found in the kratom plant. Additionally, it restricts sales to individuals under eighteen years of age and requires establishments to disclose the factual basis for representing a product as kratom.

The bill also establishes civil penalties for violations related to kratom product registration and labeling, and it empowers the directors of agriculture and health to adopt rules for implementing these regulations. It allows individuals to pursue civil actions for damages resulting from violations of the new provisions. Notably, the bill repeals existing sections of the Revised Code concerning food safety and kratom, indicating a comprehensive overhaul of the regulatory framework governing these products.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3715.01, 3715.99, 3717.01, 3717.99