North Carolina lawmakers are advancing legislation that would make kratom a controlled substance, aligning it with the state’s drug laws. The Senate bill, scheduled for a vote this week, aims to curb youth access to hemp, THC, and kratom products, citing concerns about their unregulated sale and potential health risks to minors. While the House has passed a version that would only ban synthetic kratom and regulate natural forms, the Senate proposal could treat all kratom similarly to marijuana, drawing criticism from industry advocates. Walker Gallman of the Global Kratom Coalition urged lawmakers to distinguish between natural and synthetic kratom, warning that a broad ban could deny access to those seeking natural relief. The debate highlights ongoing uncertainty over how best to regulate emerging substances. Read more at WUNC.
The latest news on the legalization of controversial botanicals.
