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Yarmouth Board of Health schedules public hearing on proposed kratom ban
Summary
The Yarmouth Board of Health voted to hold a public hearing to consider a regulation that would prohibit manufacturing, sale and distribution of synthetic and naturally derived kratom and similar unregulated intoxicating products after members raised health and regulatory concerns.
The Yarmouth Board of Health voted Feb. 2 to hold a public hearing on a proposed regulation that would prohibit the manufacturing, sale and distribution of synthetic and naturally derived kratom and other unregulated novel intoxicating products.
Board member Mary Craig summarized two competing views presented during the discussion: public-health concerns about kratom's limited research and lack of oversight, and arguments that some individuals use kratom as a tool to manage conditions such as PTSD, depression or opioid withdrawal. Assistant Health Director Barry Lervis reported that the Town of Mashpee enacted a full ban, while Rhode Island previously moved from a ban to lighter regulation. Board member Laurance Venezia, DVM, raised concerns about product availability and labeling, noting a common container lists three servings per container.
The motion to schedule a public hearing was made by Mary Craig and seconded by Laurance Venezia; the Board voted unanimously to proceed. The motion directs staff to set and notice the hearing so the Board can review public comment and vote on the proposed regulation at a future meeting.
The hearing will be the next formal opportunity for residents, business owners and health professionals to present evidence and comment on regulatory options. No date for the hearing was recorded in the minutes.
