https://www.change.org/p/joseph-r-biden-schedule-kratom-as-a-controlled-sunstance As a concerned citizen of New York, My heart is forever broken by the loss of my only son. He died so young life because of the over-the-counter drug Kratom. (A so-called natural supplement) This petition aims to raise awareness and urge the state government to take immediate action in banning Kratom in order to prevent further tragedies from occurring. Three years ago, on 8/30/2020, my son’s life ended because of confirmed mitragynine toxicity at the age of 38.

This devastating event has shaken our family and community and highlighted the urgent need for stricter regulations surrounding this substance. We cannot allow more lives to be lost, or families torn apart by this dangerous drug.

Kratom is a herbal supplement derived from a tropical tree to Southeast Asia. It is often marketed as a natural remedy for pain relief, anxiety reduction, energy boost, and even opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, numerous studies have raised serious concerns about a its safety and potential risks.

1. Health risks:  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple warnings regarding the dangers associated with Kratom consumption.  These include liver damage, respiratory depression, seizures, addiction potential, hallucinations, aggression, psychosis-like symptoms, and even death. 

2. Lack of Regulation:  Unlike prescription medications or other substances sold over the counter (OTC), Kratom remains ‘Largely unregulated in New York State. This lack of oversight allows for inconsistent quality control measures that can lead to unpredictable effects user’s health.

3. Rising Incidents:  According to data collected by poison control centers across the United States between 2011 and 2017 (American Association of Poison Control Centers), there was an alarming increase in calls related to kratom exposure, from just 13 calls in 2011 to 682 in 2017.

4. Legal Actions Taken Elsewhere:  Several states across the United States have already taken proactive measures against Kratom because of its potential risks.  These include Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. It is time for New York State to join this growing list and prioritize the safety of its citizens.

5. Kratom is a billion-dollar industry.

Please, we need to take action.

kratomdangerawareness.org

By signing this petition, we call upon the NYS state government to take immediate action in banning Kratom within our borders. We urge lawmakers to consider the overwhelming evidence of harm associated with this substance and prioritize public health and safety above all else.