Kankakee‑area enforcement group briefs Manteno trustees on kratom; board to consider local ban
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Summary
Agents from the Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group described kratom’s opioid‑like effects, potential for addiction and psychosis, and patchwork local restrictions; trustees discussed veterans’ use for PTSD and possible local ordinance or licensing measures and asked staff to gather more information.
Agents from the Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (CAMEG) told the Village Board that kratom — a plant product sold in tablet and powder form at some gas stations and smoke shops — is a drug of concern and not tightly regulated under federal law.
A CAMEG presenter said, "Kratom is essentially an opiate," and described it as stimulant at low doses and sedative at higher doses. Presenters noted two active alkaloids and said manufacturers sometimes add synthetic fillers that can increase risks. CAMEG agents said the Drug Enforcement Administration has considered but not successfully moved kratom onto the Controlled Substances Act, leaving regulation largely at the state and local level.
The presenters said Illinois has limited kratom sales to buyers 18 and older under state law and that several nearby municipalities have adopted local bans. A CAMEG agent reported that some jurisdictions in the county have pursued ordinances to stop retail sales at gas stations and smoke shops. The presenters described casework showing overdoses and adverse events where kratom products included unexpected additives.
Trustees asked staff whether the village can enact a local ban; staff replied it can be done through a village ordinance and enforced via fines, and noted the village has previously licensed vape shops to increase enforcement authority. Trustees raised concerns about veterans who may use kratom for PTSD and suggested gathering medical and veteran‑service input before moving to an ordinance. Several trustees expressed support for exploring a local prohibition or stronger licensing and enforcement measures.
Board members asked staff to collect more information, consult with local veterans’ representatives and the police department, and return with draft ordinance language or licensing options. No ordinance was adopted at the meeting.
Next steps: staff to compile additional public‑health and enforcement information and provide proposed ordinance or licensing language to the board for future consideration.