Every individual who has battled addiction carries a deeply personal story. I am no exception. My encounter with Kratom was marked by brutal withdrawal symptoms, likened only to those experienced from opioids. During the darkest periods of my struggle, I felt the economic strain, the detrimental impact on my life, and the addictive grip of this substance tightening.

Kratom is marketed as a “botanical herb” that helps with pain and energy, but also produces euphoric effects like opioids do. A lot of people use Kratom to get off of opiates - with most of them unfortunately going from one addiction to another. It’s widely accessible and not regulated, which makes this truly terrifying. 

I am just one person amongst many who have dealt with kratom addiction first hand. The effects of Kratom do not only reverberate through my life, as my story is mirrored by countless others. I have seen posts amongst grieving parents in support groups, listened to their mournful tales of losing their children to Kratom overdose. The intensity of their despair is inexplicable and resonates deeply with anyone who hears their story.

In the state of Texas, we urgently need legislation to regulate or ban Kratom. It is critical to highlight that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified Kratom as a "drug of concern". The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have also presented evidence of the substance's potential for abuse and dependency (source: DEA and FDA statements).

The need for urgent action is evident - Kratom is widely available and accessible to everyone, which is a huge part of this problem. I appeal to the residents of Texas, empathize with the personal and devastating stories you have just read, and imagine the pain and suffering the lack of regulation is causing families and individuals around the state.

Let us not stand idly by; let’s make Texas safer for everyone. We urge Texas lawmakers to take immediate action either by regulating or banning Kratom. Please sign this petition and demand change from our elected officials.