Peach Tree Times

State Representative Rick Townsend's legislation, House Bill 181, aimed at establishing regulations for kratom products in Georgia, has been signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp. The bill, which addresses concerns regarding the sale and composition of kratom in the state, has garnered support for its focus on consumer safety and transparency.

House Speaker Jon Burns expressed satisfaction with the new regulations, stating, “Georgia citizens deserve the utmost safety and transparency regarding the products they purchase in our state.” He commended Rep. Townsend for his efforts to protect consumers by implementing restrictions on unsourced kratom and introducing accountability measures for the product.

Rep. Townsend, the sponsor of the bill, emphasized the collaborative nature of the legislation, stating, “Originally introduced during my first term in 2023, my colleagues and I collaborated with the American Kratom Association to proactively address responsible consumption and mitigate potential risks associated with this substance.” He thanked Governor Kemp for enacting the bill and acknowledged his legislative peers for their thorough review and commitment to ensuring the safety of Georgians.

House Bill 181 expands the definition of kratom to include specific compounds and sets strict regulations on the sale and composition of kratom products. The bill prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from selling or transferring kratom products and mandates that all products come from the natural plant with defined compound limits. Violations of these regulations will result in penalties for processors and retailers, including fines and imprisonment.

The regulations outlined in House Bill 181 are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, with stringent enforcement measures for offenders thereafter. Rep. Townsend, along with families affected by kratom, held a press conference after the bill signing to discuss the purpose and significance of the legislation, with attendees expressing gratitude for the newly passed law.

The legislation signifies a proactive approach by Georgia lawmakers to address the concerns surrounding kratom products, prioritizing consumer safety and responsible consumption.