Why it Matters
The Global Kratom Coalition switched lobbying firms after a year of advocacy, signaling an escalation in strategy. The non-profit ditched Troutman Pepper Locke Strategies LLC for BGR Government Affairs LLC, a heavyweight firm with deep pharmaceutical and healthcare ties. BGR’s client roster includes GSK plc and Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA).
By the Numbers
The coalition has spent $200,000 on lobbying across 7 disclosures since starting in June 2024. BGR’s three-person team brings serious congressional firepower:
- Brent Alan Del Monte: Former House Energy and Commerce Committee counsel with pharmaceutical clients like Pfizer Inc. and Eli Lilly & Co.
- Remy Leigh Brim Mason: Former senior adviser on FDA policy for the Senate HELP Committee
- John W. Stone: Seven-plus years on House Energy and Commerce as senior counsel
Broader Context
Kratom exists in regulatory limbo between dietary supplements and controlled substances. The FDA has issued warning letters to kratom companies over health claims. The DEA has previously considered scheduling kratom as a controlled substance. Consumer protection legislation is gaining traction in Congress, potentially affecting how natural products are regulated.
The Agenda
BGR will provide “strategic counsel and advocacy on issues related to FDA enforcement and DEA scheduling.” No specific legislation is mentioned in the new client registration filing. The coalition previously lobbied on FDA oversight of dietary supplements and the Federal Kratom Consumer Protection Act.
Competitive Landscape
The kratom industry is mobilizing with multiple organizations lobbying on the Federal Kratom Consumer Protection Act. The American Kratom Association leads the charge with four different lobbying firms. Companies like MIT45 Inc. and Botanic Tonics LLC are also active. This coordinated effort suggests industry-wide concern about regulatory uncertainty.
Between The Lines
Congress shows limited recent activity on kratom specifically. However, broader consumer protection bills are moving. H.R.2889 – Online Consumer Protection Act could affect online kratom vendors. H.R.4121 – Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 will determine FDA funding levels for supplement enforcement.
The Bottom Line
Upgrading to BGR signals the coalition wants serious Washington firepower for FDA and DEA battles. The team’s deep congressional experience on health committees could prove valuable. But kratom faces an uphill regulatory fight with limited recent congressional momentum.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!
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