Irrmago / Depositphotos.com
Louisiana lawmakers are debating the future of kratom, an herbal substance with stimulating or sedating effects sold in gas stations and smoke shops. Monroe Senator Jay Morris, seeks a total ban, citing safety concerns and support from law enforcement. Possession could lead to fines or prison. Morris argues that if it’s a medicine, it should have FDA approval.
“The ease of which it can be obtained, I just don’t think there is enough of a prevailing positive argument for it to be sold in Louisiana.”
Morris says kratom can be addictive, causing hallucinations, nausea, and even death. He says medical professionals are seeing babies born addicted to the substance.
“But Child Protective Services is reluctant to intervene at all because its a legal substance.”
As the debate continues, local law enforcement reports cases of overdoses and misuse, prompting broader discussions on kratom’s legal status, public safety, and potential therapeutic value. Morris says users say they use kratom to manage pain, which is exactly what opioids do…
“Opioids kill pain obviously, but they’re addictive, and that’s why we don’t allow them to be sold without a prescription. But kratom can not be sold with a prescription because it’s not approved as a drug.”
The Louisiana District Attorneys Association and the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association support Morris’s bill.
The legislation will be heard Tuesday by the Senate Judiciary C Committee.
Comments