Keoki Kaluna | Oppose SB557

Subject: Concerns regarding the immediate effective date and the clinical necessity of kratom alkaloids. To the Honorable Chair and Members of the Committee, My name is Keoki Kaluna. I am a 49-year-old former professional athlete and a resident of the Epping area. I am writing to strongly oppose SB 557, specifically regarding its "effective immediately" clause and the lack of distinction between harmful synthetics and concentrated natural alkaloids that provide therapeutic relief The Human Cost of an Immediate Ban I am one of many individuals who depend on kratom-derived products to maintain my quality of life and physical stability. Because this bill is written to take effect "upon passage," it creates a literal overnight crisis for citizens like me. Suddenly removing access to a substance the body has acclimated to—without a medical transition plan or a tapering period—is dangerous. Forced, abrupt withdrawal from high-potency alkaloids can cause severe physical distress, including cardiac strain, insomnia, and intense pain. By passing this "immediately," the State is effectively legislating a health crisis for its residents. The Science of 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) While this bill classifies 7-OH as "semisynthetic," it is a naturally occurring alkaloid that scientific research identifies as the primary mediator of kratom’s analgesic (pain-killing) effects. Analgesic Efficacy: A 2019 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry found that 7-OH is a "key mediator" of the plant's beneficial effects. G-Protein Biased Signaling: Unlike traditional opioids, kratom alkaloids like 7-OH are "G-protein biased agonists." This means they can provide significant pain relief while significantly reducing the risk of respiratory depression—the primary cause of opioid overdose deaths (Kruegel et al., 2016). My Request to the Committee I understand the Committee’s desire to regulate the market, but as currently drafted, SB 557 is a "sledgehammer" approach where a "scalpel" is needed. I ask that you: Amend the Effective Date: At a minimum, delay the effective date by 90 days to allow consumers to consult with medical professionals and transition safely. Clarify Definitions: Ensure that natural extractions are not grouped with truly "synthetic" lab-created drugs. Please do not leave citizens like myself in a position where our health and stability are compromised overnight. Respectfully, Keoki R. Kaluna