Southeastern States Tighten Regulations on Kratom

Louisiana Moves Towards Full Ban, Mississippi Implements Age and Product Restrictions

Upcoming legislative changes in Louisiana and Mississippi are set to significantly alter the landscape for kratom users and vendors in the southeastern United States. Both states are taking steps to regulate or outright ban the controversial substance, prompting varied reactions from consumers and businesses.

In Louisiana, a two-phased approach to controlling kratom sales is underway. Beginning next Tuesday, the state will restrict the sale of kratom products to individuals aged 21 and older. This will be followed by a complete ban on kratom later in the summer. The impending ban has already led to a noticeable increase in customer traffic at kratom retailers in neighboring Mississippi, as Louisiana residents stock up ahead of the new restrictions.

Meanwhile, Mississippi is also enacting new regulations, though not as stringent as Louisiana’s full ban. Effective July 1st, Mississippi will implement an age restriction, making kratom purchases legal only for individuals 21 years of age and older. While new for the state, some businesses, such as Bay Tobacco and Beer, have already been enforcing this age policy voluntarily. Additionally, Mississippi’s new law will specifically target and ban synthetic kratom products, particularly those referred to as “70,” which are known for their high concentration of chemicals.

The regulatory actions come amidst ongoing discussions about the safety and efficacy of kratom. It’s important to note that kratom products are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A 2021 FDA study estimated that approximately 1.7 million people over the age of 12 had used kratom. Beyond these new statewide measures, over 30 counties and cities within Mississippi have already independently enacted their own restrictions or outright bans on the sale of kratom products.

These legislative shifts underscore a growing trend in states across the U.S. to address the sale and consumption of kratom, reflecting a broader debate about public health and the regulation of unapproved substances.