The Kosciusko Board of Aldermen is considering an ordinance to prohibit the sale and distribution of Kratom within city limits. The proposed ban follows growing scrutiny of the herbal substance across Mississippi and nationwide.
Derived from a Southeast Asian tree, Kratom produces stimulant effects at lower doses and opioid-like effects in higher quantities. Because the substance is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), health officials warn that products sold in convenience stores and smoke shops can vary widely in strength and may contain dangerous synthetic additives.
The board’s draft comes amid heightened regional concern following the recent deaths of two University of Mississippi students in Oxford. Packages of Kratom were found in both students’ rooms, prompting federal investigations into local retail stores and charges against store operators for selling illegal synthetic Kratom compounds.
While Kratom remains legal under federal law, 11 states and numerous Mississippi municipalities, including Brandon, Carthage, Madison, Oxford, Richland, and Tupelo, have already enacted complete bans.
“When a product like this isn’t regulated by the FDA, nobody really knows what’s in it or what you’re buying,” said Mayor Tim Kyle. “It can have serious adverse effects on people, and we want to ensure our residents live in a safe community.”
The Board of Aldermen is reviewing the draft ordinance and is expected to vote on the measure at an upcoming meeting.
Click HERE for more information on Kratom and to see details of the city’s proposed ordinance.
Audio: Mayor Tim Kyle
