The State of the Kratom Ban – Delayed Indefinitely?
In late August, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency announced a ban on the herbal supplement kratom. Now, after much public outcry and demands made by lawmakers, the agency is reconsidering its decision.
In late August, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency announced a ban on the herbal supplement kratom. Now, after much public outcry and demands made by lawmakers, the agency is reconsidering its decision.
While the agency did not commit to a firm date, the DEA’s kratom ban could have taken effect on September 30, yet the order has not been signed. According to a source familiar with the DEA’s ban decision, the prohibition may not take effect until after a period of public comment and consultations with the Food and Drug Administration. Should the order be signed and kratom become illegal, it will remain prohibited for a period of up to three years, unless the agency decides to make the ban permanent.
The decision to delay the kratom ban is likely fueled by protests by the herb’s advocates and a petition sent to the Obama administration with over 130,000 signatures asking that the prohibition be lifted.
