Nebraska Bill LB431 Seeks to Outlaw Kratom Amid Growing Safety Concerns

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

The bill introduced during Nebraska’s legislative session, LB431, seeks to outlaw kratom, an herbal extract that has gained attention for its potential effects similar to opioids.

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers has expressed concern about kratom due to its psychoactive properties, which can both stimulate users and produce euphoria or sedation. Dr. Ronald Kirschner, a medical expert, explained that kratom has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia and can help manage opioid cravings, making it popular among those struggling with addiction.

However, Dr. Kirschner also warned of the potential for abuse and the risks it poses, particularly when consumed in unregulated forms.

Since kratom is widely sold in places like vape shops and gas stations, its purity and safety are not guaranteed, raising concerns about harmful adulterants mixed into the product.

This lack of regulation contributes to the growing calls to restrict its sale, with kratom-related toxicity cases being reported in Nebraska.

 

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