It’s sometimes known as “gas station heroin,” and this week the Michigan House voted to ban it.
On a 56-48 vote, state representatives approved legislation that bans the production and sale of kratom products in the state. Health officials say kratom is dangerous and can lead to overdoses and deaths.
Patty Wheeler’s son died four years ago after using kratom.
“When you talk about kratom and the dangers of kratom, it isn’t just that simple,” Wheeler told lawmakers. “It’s also the addictiveness of kratom. So all kratom, within about a two-week period, scientifically, they’re showing that it is not ‘if,’ it is ‘when’ you are going to become addicted.”
Supporters of the legislation say the drug has been linked to multiple deaths and poses a growing risk in communities across the state.
Republican leaders say eight other states, including Indiana and Wisconsin, have also banned kratom. The legislation goes to the full Senate for consideration.
