Bill > SJR0346

This resolution addresses the regulation of Kratom, a substance derived from a plant that mimics opioids and is currently legal for adult purchase in Tennessee. The resolution highlights significant concerns about Kratom, noting that an estimated 1.7 million Americans use it to self-treat medical conditions, and it is often sold in convenience stores without clear information about ingredients, dosing, or potential health risks. The document cites alarming statistics, including over 2,000 fatal Kratom-related overdoses between 2021 and 2023, and points to the substance being banned or controlled in multiple countries. The resolution is particularly motivated by a personal tragedy involving Matthew Davenport, who died from a lethal interaction between prescribed medications and Kratom, and his mother Karen Davenport's subsequent advocacy. Ultimately, the resolution calls for Tennessee to support the strictest possible regulation of Kratom, potentially including a complete ban on its sale in the state, to protect families and communities from what it describes as a harmful, unregulated substance.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SJR0346&ga=114