Tennessee House Bill HB1647

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/26
• Refer: 1/21/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33, Chapter 2; Title 38; Title 39; Title 50; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to Kratom.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will considerably tighten the state's control over Kratom, effectively making it illegal to possess or sell the substance within Tennessee. It establishes strict penalties intended to deter illegal activities associated with Kratom, especially the underage distribution of the substance. Additionally, the bill mandates that county medical examiners perform toxicology tests for Kratom when investigating drug overdoses. This requirement aims to improve the understanding of drug-related deaths and substance use trends in the state.

Summary

House Bill 1647 proposes significant amendments to existing Tennessee state laws concerning Kratom, a substance derived from the mitragyna speciosa plant. The bill aims to classify the possession, manufacture, delivery, or sale of Kratom as a criminal offense. Depending on the nature of the offense, violations could result in penalties ranging from Class D to Class A felonies, particularly when minors are involved. This legislation seeks to enhance the legal framework governing the regulation of substances and to address safety concerns associated with Kratom's usage.

Contention

There are points of contention surrounding this bill, primarily focused on the balance between public health concerns and the rights of individuals to possess and use natural substances. Critics may argue that the bill could criminalize otherwise harmless activities associated with Kratom, while proponents likely emphasize the health risks and regulatory challenges it presents. The implications of such stringent regulation may impact users, vendors, and the perception of natural products within the state. As it seeks to preemptively manage potential misuse, discussions around this bill are expected to invoke significant debate within legislative and public forums.