Marion and Herrin Restrict Kratom Sales Following Council Decisions

Two communities in Williamson County, Illinois, have recently updated their local ordinances to restrict the sale and delivery of kratom and its derivatives. The City of Marion and the City of Herrin both approved new measures during city council meetings on May 12, affecting retailers and consumers who purchase kratom products at gas stations and stores.

Kratom, a plant-based product often sold in convenience outlets, has been the subject of ongoing regulatory discussions across the country. The new ordinances reflect a growing trend among local governments to address the sale of kratom at the community level.

For more details on these developments, including official statements from the cities, visit the original report at WSIL-TV’s website.

Colorado Advances Kratom Product Registration Bill

Colorado lawmakers are moving forward with Senate Bill 72, which would require kratom manufacturers to register their products annually with the Department of Revenue. The bill sets out clear standards for labeling, packaging, and product composition, aiming to promote transparency and consumer safety. Manufacturers must pay annual fees, provide proof of federal registration, and comply with state requirements.

Penalties for non-compliance can include fines and, for repeat violations, temporary bans from the Colorado market. The legislation also allows local governments to adopt stricter rules if they choose. Supporters say these measures will help ensure the integrity of kratom products as the industry grows in Colorado.

Pennsylvania House Schedules Vote on Cannabis Legalization Bill

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives is set to hold a key vote tomorrow on House Bill 1200, which would legalize recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older. The bill, introduced by a bipartisan group of 27 lawmakers, narrowly passed the House Health Committee in a 14-12 vote along party lines. If approved, HB 1200 would allow adults to purchase marijuana from state-licensed Pennsylvania Cannabis Stores and grow up to two mature and two immature plants at home.

The legislation proposes a 12% tax on marijuana products and a 6% tax on paraphernalia, with revenue directed toward community reinvestment, substance use prevention, and cannabis-related programs. It also includes automatic expungement of certain marijuana convictions and equity measures for communities impacted by prohibition. Governor Josh Shapiro has voiced strong support for legalization. For more details, see the original article at The Marijuana Herald.

Louisiana Senate Advances Statewide Kratom Ban Bill

A bill proposing a statewide ban on kratom is moving to the full Louisiana Senate for consideration after passing a key committee this week. Kratom, a herbal supplement commonly sold as a dietary aid, mood booster, and pain reliever, is already banned in some parishes but remains widely available in shops and gas stations across the state.

Supporters of the ban, including many law enforcement officials, argue that kratom can be addictive and poses public safety concerns. However, others view it as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers, with some advocates highlighting its role in helping individuals avoid opioids.

If the legislation passes, possession or distribution of kratom could become a criminal offense, with penalties including fines and possible jail time. The proposed law could take effect as early as August. For more details, see the original report at WWL-TV.

Clinton Township Board Debates Kratom Regulation at Special Meeting

The Clinton Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting on April 21 to discuss potential regulation of kratom, an herbal substance derived from Southeast Asia that can produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects. Trustee Shannon King led the session, which brought together advocates and critics of kratom. While no immediate action was taken, some trustees expressed interest in waiting for possible state-level legislation.

Speakers highlighted both risks and benefits. Critics pointed to the lack of oversight, potential for abuse, and health risks such as cardiovascular and liver issues. Supporters, including local residents, described kratom as a valuable tool for managing pain and combating opioid addiction, though they agreed regulation is needed to ensure safety and quality. The board is considering options ranging from a local ban to waiting for state action. Read the full story at C&G Newspapers.

Mississippi Sets Age Limit for Kratom Sales as Local Bans Grow

Mississippi is set to implement new regulations on kratom, with House Bill 1077 awaiting the governor’s signature. If signed, the law will prohibit the sale of kratom products to anyone under 21 starting July 1, 2025. The legislation also bans synthetic kratom and caps product potency, while preserving the right of counties and cities to enact their own bans.

Local business owners, such as Scott Carmichael in Jones County, have expressed concerns about the economic impact, noting that customers often travel to neighboring areas where kratom remains legal. The new law will require retailers to check IDs much like with alcohol and tobacco, aiming to keep kratom out of the hands of minors. For more on the evolving landscape of regulating kratom in Mississippi, see the original report.

North Dakota Senate Opts for Kratom Study Over Immediate Regulation

The North Dakota Senate has decided to pause on regulating kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia known for its use as an energy booster and pain management aid. Instead, lawmakers voted 31-15 to convert House Bill 1566 into a call for a legislative study on kratom’s uses and potential regulations. The bill, which previously proposed direct regulation, will now return to the House for further consideration.

The decision reflects ongoing debates in the legislature, with some members advocating for more information before enacting new rules. Senator Jeff Magrum, who sponsored the amendment, emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of kratom before moving forward. The study will examine both the benefits and regulatory considerations for kratom products, which remain widely available to consumers, particularly online.

For more details, see the coverage at Knox Radio.

Tennessee Lawmakers Advance Resolution to Ban Kratom Statewide

The Tennessee legislature has advanced House Joint Resolution 147, a measure advocating for a statewide ban on kratom, a plant-based supplement often marketed for pain relief and stress management. The resolution, championed by State Representative Esther Helton-Haynes of East Ridge, calls for strict legislation to limit kratom’s availability in Tennessee. Helton-Haynes cited a recent case involving a Chattanooga man whose death was reportedly linked to an interaction between kratom and prescription medication.

Kratom, which is advertised for its opioid- and stimulant-like effects, remains legal in many states but is listed as a “drug and chemical of concern” by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The resolution now heads to the Senate and, if approved, will move to Governor Bill Lee’s desk for consideration. For more details, see the original article on MSN News.

Mississippi Moves Forward with New Kratom Regulations

Mississippi lawmakers have advanced two bills aimed at regulating the sale of kratom, an herbal product widely used for its potential health benefits. House Bill 1077, which has passed both chambers, would raise the minimum purchasing age for kratom to 21 and ban synthetic kratom products. These measures are intended to ensure consumer safety while maintaining access to pure kratom products.

The legislation has garnered mixed reactions. Advocates, such as Christina Dent of End It For Good, praised the approach for balancing regulation with accessibility, emphasizing harm reduction. However, some lawmakers, like Rep. Stacey Hobgood-Wilkes, expressed disappointment that stricter measures—such as classifying kratom as a Schedule III controlled substance—were not adopted.

Additionally, House Bill 1896 proposes a 25% excise tax on kratom products, raising concerns about affordability and the potential for underground markets. Local ordinances banning kratom remain unaffected by these bills, leaving some users worried about inconsistent regulations across the state.

Texas Senate Considers Bill to Ban Kratom Despite Potential Benefits

The Texas State Senate is currently reviewing Senate Bill 1868, which, if passed, would ban the sale of kratom in the state. Kratom, derived from a Southeast Asian tree, has gained popularity for its potential to relieve pain, anxiety, and depression.

Proponents of kratom argue that the plant offers a natural alternative to prescription medications, particularly opioids, for managing chronic pain. Some studies suggest kratom may have a lower risk of addiction and fewer side effects than traditional painkillers. Many people who struggle with opioid addiction find kratom helpful in managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings.

Despite these potential benefits, concerns persist regarding the safety and regulation of kratom products, which has fueled the proposed ban. For more information on the bill and the debate surrounding kratom, you can read the full article on MSN.

Florida Bill Seeks Stricter Regulations on Kratom Sales

A new bill introduced in Florida aims to tighten regulations on the sale of kratom, a herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree. The proposed legislation would raise the minimum purchasing age from 21 to 24 and mandate that kratom products meet stringent labeling and quality standards. Retailers caught violating these rules could face fines of up to $500 per infraction.

Supporters of the bill argue that enhanced oversight is necessary to ensure consumer safety, given concerns about inconsistent product quality and potential misuse. However, critics worry that the proposed changes could unfairly burden small businesses and restrict access for responsible adult consumers.

Kratom has gained popularity in recent years as a natural remedy for pain and anxiety, but its legal status remains contentious across the U.S. For more details on this developing story, visit MSN.

Dracut Bans Kratom Despite Advocates Highlighting Its Benefits

The town of Dracut has moved to ban kratom, an herbal supplement with a growing base of supporters who tout its potential benefits for pain relief, energy, and overall well-being. The decision, made during a recent Board of Selectmen meeting, reflects concerns from some officials about the substance’s safety. However, many advocates argue that kratom is a misunderstood natural remedy.

Derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree, kratom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Supporters point out that it offers a natural alternative to prescription painkillers and can assist those seeking relief from chronic conditions. While critics cite concerns about misuse, proponents emphasize the need for regulation rather than outright bans, allowing consumers to access safe and reliable products.

For more on this story, visit The Lowell Sun here.

Florida Senate Committee Advances Kratom Consumer Protection Act

A Florida Senate committee has advanced a bill aimed at regulating kratom. On Wednesday, the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee voted 8 to 1 in favor of Senate Bill 1734, known as the Florida Kratom Consumer Protection Act. If passed, this legislation would establish comprehensive statewide regulations for kratom processing and sales, ensuring consumer safety and product quality. (The Marijuana Herald)

The bill includes strict safety guidelines, prohibiting the addition of non-kratom substances and setting limits on the concentrations of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. It also mandates clear labeling, including ingredients, serving sizes, and potential effects. Sales to individuals under 21 would be prohibited, and all kratom processors would need to register with the FDA and hold the necessary state permits. SB 1734 will now move to the Senate Agriculture, Environment, and General Government Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

States Grapple with Kratom Regulation Amid Federal Absence

With the federal government yet to take definitive action, individual states are increasingly wrestling with how to regulate kratom, a plant-derived substance used by some for pain relief and energy. The Pain News Network reports that states like Montana are considering measures to ban sales to minors and mandate specific product labeling.

The debate around kratom centers on its potential health effects and the risk of addiction. Proponents argue that kratom offers a natural alternative for managing pain, while opponents voice concerns about safety and the lack of standardized regulations. As states navigate these conflicting viewpoints, the future of kratom regulation remains uncertain.

Read the full story on Pain News Network.

Illinois Lawmakers to Hold Public Hearing on Kratom Regulation

Illinois lawmakers have scheduled a public hearing to discuss the “Kratom Consumer Protection Act,” a bill designed to regulate kratom products in the state. The proposed legislation, introduced by Representative Curtis Tarver, includes several key provisions. It would prohibit the sale of kratom to individuals under 21 and ban products that are appealing to children. Additionally, the bill would outlaw the sale of kratom products containing synthesized alkaloids and impose a 5% retail tax statewide. Violations could result in fines of up to $20,000. For more information on the bill and its potential impact, you can refer to similar discussions on kratom regulation. The hearing is a crucial step towards establishing stricter guidelines for kratom in Illinois.

Montana Debates Kratom Regulation Amid Federal Absence

Montana is grappling with how to regulate kratom, a plant-based substance marketed as a mood and energy enhancer with potential for addiction. With no federal oversight, the state is acting to address supply chain issues and safeguard consumers.

The “Kratom Consumer Protection Act,” drafted by the American Kratom Association, is under consideration in the Montana Legislature. The act seeks to ban sales to those under 18 and limit the products labeled as “kratom” based on the concentration of specific chemical elements. Other states have passed similar industry-supported legislation.

Concerns remain about whether the proposed bill prioritizes public health or commercial interests. According to a report by NBC Montana, the bill’s success depends on the state’s capacity to regulate the industry and the integrity of retailers in product testing and advertising.

Missouri House Committee Advances Kratom Consumer Protection Act

The Missouri House Emerging Issues Committee has unanimously approved the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (HB 1037) with a 13-0 vote, marking a significant step toward regulating kratom products in the state. The bill aims to ensure consumer safety by implementing strict guidelines on labeling, sales, and product contents.

Kratom, a plant-derived substance from Southeast Asia, is often used for pain relief and anxiety management but has faced legal scrutiny due to inconsistent product quality and potency. If passed, HB 1037 would require accurate labeling of alkaloid content, ban sales to individuals under 21, and prohibit adulterated or synthetic kratom products. Violators could face fines or misdemeanor charges, while harmed consumers may pursue legal action.

With bipartisan support, the bill now moves to the full House for further consideration. For more details, visit The Marijuana Herald.

Jones County Supervisors Debate Kratom Regulation

The Jones County Board of Supervisors recently discussed the regulation of kratom, a controversial herbal product derived from Southeast Asia, during their March 4 meeting. While no official decision was made, the board acknowledged growing concerns over kratom’s potential health risks and its availability in local stores.

Kratom, often marketed as a natural remedy for pain and opioid withdrawal, has sparked debate nationwide due to its stimulant- and opioid-like effects. Critics argue it is addictive and dangerous, while supporters claim it can be a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions.

The board is considering options, including restrictions or an outright ban, but emphasized the need for further research and public input before proceeding. This discussion reflects broader legislative efforts across Mississippi to regulate kratom use and sales.

For more details, visit WDAM.

FDA Pilot Study Finds Kratom Leaf “Well-Tolerated” in Controlled Dosing

A recent FDA-led pilot study evaluating kratom’s safety revealed the botanical was “well tolerated” in single doses up to 12 grams under clinical conditions. The trial, involving 40 healthy participants with no substance abuse history, tested escalating doses of encapsulated kratom leaf powder. While higher doses (8–12 grams) caused transient nausea—attributed to the bulk of ingesting up to 24 capsules—researchers observed no severe adverse effects beyond minor pupil dilation.

Christopher McCurdy, a University of Florida medicinal chemist and study co-author, noted the findings open doors for further research into kratom’s therapeutic potential, particularly for pain management and opioid withdrawal. The study used rigorously tested kratom from Super Speciosa, a supplier advocating for industry regulation and standardized manufacturing practices.

FDA emphasized the need for additional studies to assess risks linked to commercial kratom products, including extracts with concentrated alkaloids. Advocates hope the results prompt balanced oversight rather than outright bans. For full details, read the original SupplySide SJ report.

Colorado Issues First Licenses for Psilocybin Businesses, Legal Access Expected by Spring

Colorado has taken a major step in its journey toward regulated psilocybin-assisted therapy by issuing the first licenses to individuals in the emerging psilocybin industry. The state’s Department of Revenue’s Natural Medicine Division approved seven applications for cultivation and healing centers, along with one additional license for a local industry worker. While these approvals mark significant progress, businesses must still secure official licenses before operations can begin.

This milestone follows the passage of Proposition 122, also known as the Natural Medicine Health Act, in November 2022. The act decriminalized personal use and possession of psilocybin for adults over 21 and set up a framework for regulated therapies and licensed facilities. Colorado joins Oregon as one of the first states to legalize and regulate psilocybin treatments. Regulators anticipate public access to these therapies as early as spring.

For more details, visit The Marijuana Herald.