East Tennessee Groups and Lawmakers Push to Ban Kratom

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Kratom, an herbal supplement derived from a Southeast Asian tree, is facing increased scrutiny in East Tennessee. Local groups like the Unicoi County Prevention Coalition warn that the drug's growing popularity, especially among young people, could lead to more overdoses, poisonings, and addiction. State lawmakers have introduced bills that would either ban the possession, sale, and manufacturing of kratom or add stricter regulations to the industry. However, some legislators like Rep. Joe Towns Jr. argue that regulation, not prohibition, is the better approach to allow access for those who find kratom helpful in overcoming hard drug addictions.

Why it matters

The debate over kratom regulation highlights the challenges communities face in balancing public health concerns with individual freedoms. As kratom grows more prevalent, especially in the form of 'gas station heroin', local leaders worry about the potential risks to vulnerable populations like youth. But some lawmakers believe outright prohibition could do more harm than good by cutting off access for those using kratom to manage opioid withdrawal.

The details

Kratom is sold in many local shops in East Tennessee, often marketed as a treatment for opioid withdrawal despite research questioning its efficacy. The drug can act as a stimulant in low doses and a sedative in high doses. While overdoses using kratom alone are rare, dangerous side effects can occur when combined with alcohol or other drugs. Local groups like the Unicoi County Prevention Coalition are pushing for more education about kratom's risks, fearing increased use and access could lead to more overdoses, poisonings, and addiction, especially among youth. State lawmakers have introduced bills to either ban kratom outright or add stricter regulations, such as age restrictions and labeling requirements. However, some legislators like Rep. Joe Towns Jr. favor regulation over prohibition, arguing that kratom can help people recover from hard drug addictions if properly controlled.

• In May 2025, a resolution supporting 'the strictest state regulation' of kratom was signed into law by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
• The 'Matthew Davenport' bill, which would ban the possession, sale, and manufacturing of kratom, is currently assigned to a Tennessee House subcommittee.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The 'Matthew Davenport' bill and the 'Tennessee Kratom Consumer Protection Act' are both currently assigned to Tennessee legislative committees for further consideration.