Idaho Kratom Industry Funneled Over $50,000 Into Campaign Accounts as Regulation Bills Failed

Why it matters

An investigative analysis reveals how industry money flows into state campaigns while regulation attempts stall — leaving no age limits, labeling requirements, or safety standards in Idaho. A 23-year-old died from acute mitragynine intoxication; her family testified for a ban.

The big picture

Idaho lawmakers attempted both a full kratom ban and an industry-backed regulation bill in the 2026 session. Both failed. A KTVB investigation found kratom industry executives, suppliers, and manufacturers donated to multiple legislators on both sides of the issue, including the House Speaker, who later acknowledged he had not initially realized he received industry money.

Key findings

• Over $50,000 flowed from kratom industry sources into Idaho campaign accounts after the 2026 legislative session
• Recipients included House Speaker Mike Moyle, Rep. Ilana Rubel, Rep. David Leavitt, and Sen. Tammy Nichols
• A significant portion of contributions originated from Happy Hippo Kratom owner Chris Deoudes and his wife
• Both a full ban bill (HB 864) and a regulation bill failed in the 2026 session
• Idaho has zero statewide age limits, labeling requirements, or safety standards for kratom
• One candidate openly acknowledged that campaign donations from industry donors would influence his vote

What they say

"Kratom''s been sold in Idaho for over two decades, and it''s been getting a lot of negative press... largely if not entirely because of the 7-OH products that are a legitimate public safety concern — and our regulation bill addressed that." — Chris Deoudes, Happy Hippo Kratom owner

Bottom line

A KTVB investigation found tens of thousands of dollars from kratom industry sources entering Idaho campaign accounts after both a ban bill and a regulation bill failed — leaving the state with no kratom oversight at all.