My brother, once a vibrant and lively person, has seen his life unravel due to his use of kratom. This herbal substance, which is legal and over the counter in North Carolina, has not only devastated his health but shattered our family dynamics. Experiencing firsthand the life-altering consequences of kratom consumption has compelled me to raise awareness and call for urgent action.

Kratom, derived from a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, is often marketed as a safe alternative to opioids and used for pain relief or recreational purposes. However, its unregulated status poses significant risks. Reports from the FDA and CDC provide alarming statistics, showing an increase in kratom-related emergency room visits and deaths in recent years. These figures reflect the potential deadly impact kratom can have when it remains freely accessible. 

In North Carolina, kratom is currently not classified as a controlled substance, leaving the door open for vulnerable individuals to fall into dependency. We cannot stand idle while more lives are endangered, mirroring my brother's own tragic path. Several states have recognized these dangers and have taken decisive action to regulate kratom. Decisions such as these have shown a commitment to prioritizing public health without waiting for further tragedies to occur.

The solution I propose is multifaceted: North Carolina lawmakers should urgently classify kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance. This change will align with other states that have acted to protect their residents. Additionally, we need targeted education campaigns to inform the public of kratom's risks, as well as provide support and resources for those attempting to recover from its effects.

Join me in making a difference by urging North Carolina legislators to reevaluate the legal status of kratom. With enough voices advocating for change, we can prevent other families from experiencing the anguish and hardship kratom has inflicted on mine. Please sign this petition to put an end to the dangers of kratom in our state.