Current Events

Is Kratom Legal in Kentucky? A Look at the State’s Drug Laws and History with Kratom

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Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, has been the subject of legislative efforts in Kentucky over the years. The need for kratom legislation arose from growing concerns about the easy availability of kratom and similar substances, particularly to minors. In January 2024, an incident in Karlovy Vary where primary school children were poisoned by …

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Iowa City Bans Kratom Sales Amid Public Health Concerns and Email Fraud Investigation

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The Iowa City Council recently passed a controversial ordinance banning the sale of kratom within city limits, citing public health concerns and the lack of FDA approval for the substance. The new ordinance, which took effect immediately, prohibits vendors from selling kratom within city limits. However, it remains legal for people to possess and consume …

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Washington State Moves to Classify Kratom as a Schedule I Substance

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Washington State’s Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission is weighing a potential ban on kratom, a plant-based substance often used for pain relief and other therapeutic purposes. On August 22, 2024, the commission, which operates under the Washington State Department of Health, announced its intent to explore classifying kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance. This decision …

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NYC Cafe Owner Sues City Over Kava and Kratom Tea Ban

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In a recent legal battle, Tobly McSmith, the owner of Here & Now cafe in New York City, has filed a lawsuit against the city for shutting down his establishment. The cafe, which opened in December 2022, specializes in serving teas made from kava and kratom, substances known for their relaxing properties. McSmith, who invested …

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FDA Reverses Course on Controversial Kratom and Psychedelics Study

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In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently withdrew its notice of a proposed study on kratom and psychedelics. On August 2, the FDA published a notice in the Federal Register for a 60-day comment period regarding a proposed study titled “Risk/Safety Considerations and Motivations for Purchase and Use …

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North Carolina Medical Marijuana Bill Could Ban Kratom

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North Carolina’s House and Senate have recently passed a bill that would establish a medical marijuana program and place kratom on the list of Schedule I controlled substances.  Here’s what you need to know to stay informed about kratom across North Carolina: As of now, kratom remains legal in the state, but this bill could …

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“Congressional Briefing on Kratom Science and Policy” to Be Held in Washington Dec 13 Ahead of Federal KCPA

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On Wednesday December 13, 2023 at 11:30 AM- 1:00PM a Congressional Briefing on Kratom Science and Policy will be held in Capitol Visitors Center. Room 210/12, Reception Room 385, Russell Senate Office Building. Speakers include Director of NIDA Dr. Nora Volkow , Dr. Kirsten Smith of Johns Hopkins, and Dr. Mary Huestis of Thomas Jefferson …

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AKA Responds to Farmers Co-ops, Denies Buying Kratom from Farmers, Processors

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Last week, news from CNN Indonesia and other sources reported that two Indoneisan farmers groups, PPHI and KOPRABUH, were calling on their president to pause kratom exports until trade regulations can be implemented. They accused kratom vendors and the American Kratom Association (AKA) of breaking agreements, and engaging in direct transactions with farmers in order …

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Indonesian Kratom Farmers Seek to Pause Exports to the US

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Farmers’ groups accuse American kratom industry, AKA of unfair business practices that keep prices, quality low ***Update 12/4/23 AKA has responded to these allegations. Two cooperatives representing Indonesian farmers are calling on their government to stop kratom exports to the United States until agreed-upon trade regulations are in place. On November 13, 2023, the Indonesian …

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Man Held in Arkansas Jail for 8 Months on Kratom Charge for Carrying Moringa

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  “In April of 2022, he was arrested for having kratom. And the kratom turned out not to be kratom.” In a video posted on Facebook by Attorney W. Whitfield “Whit” Hyman on November 21, 2023, Hyman speaks on the case of Scott Cook, who is sitting in the passenger seat of Hyman’s vehicle. Cook …

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