Local governments debate kratom bans in New York and Florida

Local governments in the United States are taking different approaches to the regulation of kratom, a Southeast Asian herb used to treat anxiety, pain, and insomnia.

In Rensselaer County, New York, legislators have proposed a ban on the sale and distribution of both natural and synthetic kratom. Legislator Bruce Patire introduced the measure to protect minors and address addiction concerns, noting that local experts have identified kratom as a leading new substance addiction in the area. The proposal follows warnings from the Food and Drug Administration regarding the herb's addictive qualities.

Conversely, Marion County, Florida, has decided to pause its efforts to ban the substance. County commissioners agreed to delay local ordinances targeting synthetic products until federal action is taken, following concerns from staff and public speakers that a blanket local ban could unfairly impact traditional leaf users.