RI committees to hear bills on controversial substance kratom, banning patient immigration status checks

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island House Committee on Corporations will hear a controversial bill that would authorize and regulate the distribution of kratom.

The substance is still illegal in a handful of states across the U.S.

The food and drug administration has warned consumers not to use it because of the risk of liver toxicity, seizures and substance use disorder.

However, kratom advocates say the Indonesian plant can treat anxiety, depression and opioid addiction.

It was nearly legalized in Rhode Island last year until Governor McKee vetoed the bill.

No vote is scheduled on the bill.

The committee will also hear a bill that would provide new regulations for THC beverages and dispensaries.

Another bill would require criminal background checks for intra-state transportation services.

Another would bar children under the age of 16 from calling their own rideshare.

The House Judiciary Committee also meets Tuesday to discuss two bills from House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi’s housing package.

The bills would change zoning requirements for cities and towns to create more housing units.

It would also issue a zoning certificate within 20 days, instead of 15, if passed.

No vote is scheduled.

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee will hear a stack of bills Tuesday afternoon.

Among them, a bill that would allow internationally trained physicians to practice in facilities in underserved and rural communities as a substitute for the residency requirement.

Another would allow the prohibition of checking a patient’s immigration status.