Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a medicinal tree from the coffee family and is native to Southeast Asia. It's long been used there and in neighboring countries for its widely varied medicinal properties.

Kratom is very similar to other organic teas. It has mild stimulating properties that do not cause social dysfunction or physical malnourishment. It has helped countless tens of thousands in the United States alone in the last decade for treatment as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, and pain reduction among many others.

It needs to be made clear that Mitragynine and Hydroxymitragynine, notably 7-hydroxymitragynine, are natural compounds found in the leaves of Kratom. They are not artificial and do not belong on this list of banned synthetic substances. Including them in this ban will hinder citizens in your state from seeking continued medical benefits from this plant.

There are currently studies being published showing this plant has great potential in treating cocaine and heroin addiction! Results are showing that this plant is more efficacious than presently used methods of addiction therapy such as methadone and suboxone treatments.

This ban, if allowed to pass, will be a tragic devastation to the people who use it for legitimate medical purposes. If you care for your citizenry, if you care about the individual welfare and health of the people that elect you to govern them, please take seriously what this ban threatens to do to them. I, and everyone who signs this petition, urge you to not ban this plant.

Thank you for your time.