DOUGLAS BILL ADVANCING IBOGAINE RESEARCH FRAMEWORK CLEARS SENATE COMMITTEE

DOUGLAS BILL ADVANCING IBOGAINE RESEARCH FRAMEWORK CLEARS SENATE COMMITTEE

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 12, 2026) — Legislation sponsored by Sen. Donald Douglas, R-Nicholasville, aimed at creating a research framework for ibogaine-based treatments has passed the Senate committee process unanimously and now heads to the Senate floor for consideration.



Senate Bill 77 establishes a structured framework allowing Kentucky to explore the scientific and clinical potential of ibogaine in the treatment of opioid use disorder, co-occurring substance use disorders, and later post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological or mental health conditions where early research has shown promise.

“As a physician, I have seen firsthand how devastating addiction can be for patients and their families. Any loss of life is a tragedy, especially those that we have the potential to prevent,” Douglas said. “This legislation creates a responsible pathway for Kentucky to explore medical research and approval of life-saving medications while maintaining strong safeguards and transparency.”

SB 77 outlines a framework for the commonwealth to partner with qualified drug developers seeking to conduct FDA-approved clinical trials involving ibogaine. The legislation establishes clear standards for participation, including requirements related to clinical trial design, patient safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and transparency.

This bill also includes provisions to ensure the state maintains appropriate oversight of any research partnerships and protects the public interest as new treatment options are explored and expanded.

Douglas said the legislation is designed to position Kentucky as a leader in responsible medical research while expanding the conversation around innovative approaches to improve dependence, addiction and mental health treatment. Our hope is to pave the road back to strong and happy families and a healthier and more productive workforce.

“Kentucky continues to confront the devastating effects of addiction,” Douglas said. “This bill creates a thoughtful framework for research so we can better understand potential treatments and pursue solutions grounded in science, safety, and accountability.”

Senate Bill 77 now moves to the Senate floor for consideration by the full chamber. This may be the most consequential bill filed of our session.