Ouachita Parish Police Jury adopts ordinance banning sale of kratom in unincorporated parish

The Ouachita Parish Police Jury voted 4-1 on Nov. 4, 2024, to adopt Ordinance No. 9500, which adds Section 15-24 to the parish compiled ordinances to prohibit the sale or distribution of mitragynine speciosa (sometimes referred to as "kratom") in the unincorporated area of Ouachita Parish. The ordinance becomes effective Dec. 1, 2024.

The ordinance cites the Louisiana Legislature's Act No. 416 (2023) and implements the local option authority found in La. R.S. 14:91.10 and La. R.S. 40:1300.51, et seq. It defines "mitragynine speciosa" to include products containing mitragynine and/or 7-hydroxymitragynine, prescribes penalties of up to $500 and/or six months imprisonment for violations, and allows revocation of a business license on a second or subsequent conviction.

Public comment at the meeting featured competing accounts of kratom's risks and benefits. Dr. Mike McCormick, an addiction specialist from West Monroe, addressed the Jury in support of the ordinance, stating his view that kratom presents health risks and expressing support for a local prohibition. John Shinholser of the American Kratom Association opposed the ordinance, arguing that "the use of kratom helps reduce the addiction of other drugs," according to the record. Several local residents and business owners offered differing experiences: Charlie Jones of Drennan's Pharmacy said he has seen problems from people who use kratom; Melanie Jones of West Monroe recounted her son's addiction and said she supports the ban; Tana Steig and Bunty Patel, both of whom said they sell kratom, spoke against the ordinance and described benefits they associate with the product.

The ordinance was adopted by roll-call vote with Toni Bacon, Jimmy Tyson, Shane Smiley and Lonnie Hudson voting "yea" and Michael Thompson voting "nay." Larry Bratton was absent. The ordinance record states the effective date as December 1, 2024.

The ordinance text as adopted sets civil and criminal penalties and provides for license revocation after subsequent violations; it does not in the adopted text specify administrative inspection or enforcement procedures beyond those penalties. The record does not specify an implementation schedule or an enforcement-agency assignment. Members of the public and sellers who opposed the ban argued for kratom's benefits and harm-reduction role; supporters cited addiction and contamination concerns.

Next steps: the ordinance takes effect Dec. 1, 2024. The record does not show any follow-up motions assigning enforcement responsibilities or a timeline for outreach to affected retailers.