The Czech Chamber of Deputies has shown support for proposed regulations governing kratom-like substances and low-THC cannabis on Tuesday, with the aim of safeguarding children from these substances in the absence of existing regulations.

The proposed parliamentary amendment, backed by a group of deputies from five coalition parties and the opposition ANO, seeks to address the lack of regulation surrounding these substances and prioritize child protection. The amendment is now set to be assessed by the healthcare committee, despite receiving positive feedback on numerous comments. The committee is expected to make broader modifications to the proposal, extending its review period from 60 to 90 days.

Key provisions of the amendment include the prohibition of the sale of products with psychoactive effects to children through vending machines and advertising restrictions. These products would only be permitted for sale in specialized stores. In the case of online sales, sellers would be required to verify the buyer’s age, similar to the regulations for alcohol and tobacco products. Selling such products to children would incur criminal penalties, and cross-border online sales of psychoactive products would be prohibited without authorization.

Minister of Health Vlastimil Válek (TOP 09) expressed agreement with the direction of the proposal but highlighted various challenges. The ministry is leaning toward a complete ban on online sales and exports to foreign countries. Válek emphasized the need for adjustments to the proposal to fulfill its intended purpose.

While some deputies acknowledged the importance of restricting youth access to substances like kratom, they also pointed out the legislative shortcomings of the proposal. Karla Maříková, a member of the SPD, stated, “Legislatively, the law is poorly drafted, but we will not block it because we all certainly want substances like kratom to be inaccessible to youth and children.” Tom Philipp from the KDU-ČSL acknowledged the proposal’s “quite serious” errors and noted collaboration with the ministry to prepare a comprehensive amendment. ANO Deputy Marek Novák described the draft law as problematic but did not succeed in his request to return it to the Chamber for further revision.

This legislative development underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the regulatory gap concerning these substances and protecting the welfare of children and youth in the Czech Republic.

Article by Prague Forum