A year ago, the life of my father, Duane Shelley, was tragically cut short. Kratom, an unregulated herbal substance, was the cause. Despite its potential dangers, kratom is still widely available at gas stations and other retail outlets across the United States, contributing to untold numbers of addiction cases and, in heartbreaking instances like my father's, death.

The issue with kratom lies not just in its accessibility but in its addictive properties. Marketed as a legal, safe alternative to opioids, many individuals, like my father, have discovered the harsh reality of its potentially lethal effects. According to a report by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, kratom is linked to numerous overdose deaths—a grim statistic that grows as the substance remains easily available to the public.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns of the risk involved, citing that kratom can lead to addiction and also cause several severe health issues, including liver damage and adverse brain effects. Yet, despite these warnings, its sale remains unchecked in many states.

Regulation and restriction of kratom's availability are crucial steps to prevent further loss of life.

I want to ensure that no other family has to endure the pain we have suffered from losing a loved one to kratom. We urge the U.S. government to impose a nationwide ban on kratom and to invest in further research and public education about its risks. This action will not only save countless lives but also help in addressing the broader public health crisis related to substance misuse.

Please sign this petition to demand immediate legislative action to ban kratom in the United States. Your support can help prevent further tragedies and protect countless families from the devastating impact of this dangerous substance.