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LANSING, Mich. ~ Michigan lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban the production, sale and distribution of kratom, a substance derived from a tree native to Southeast Asia that is sold in powders, capsules, drinks and extracts. Supporters of the proposal cite concerns about dependence, withdrawal symptoms and highly concentrated products marketed under the kratom name, while opponents argue some people use the substance for pain management or to help reduce opioid use.
The debate has gained renewed attention following recent deaths involving university students in Mississippi, where authorities found kratom products during the investigations, though officials have not determined whether kratom played a role in the deaths. In Michigan, House Bill 5537 has passed the state House and is awaiting consideration in the Senate as lawmakers debate whether additional restrictions are needed.
