Florida is cracking down on kratom, a substance that's been flying under the regulatory radar despite reports of its potential harm, particularly to younger individuals. Top state officials, including Sheriff T.K. Waters of Jacksonville, Attorney General James Uthmeier, and Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Commissioner Wilton Simpson convened on Thursday to discuss the outcomes of the state's forceful actions against products containing the chemical compound 7-OH, derived from the kratom plant.
Last month saw an unprecedented move from the Attorney General, who issued an emergency rule that effectively banned the sale of kratom-based products, which have been popping up on shelves at various retail locations including gas stations, and smoke shops. According to an official statement released by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, these products are sometimes even targeted toward a younger audience, which compounds the issue, and it's easy to see why parents are being urged to talk to their children about the dangers associated with kratom.
The addiction and overdose risks stemming from 7-OH, the active compound in kratom, can't be understated. The Florida Department of Health has noted an uptick in emergency room visits and health complications linked to the substance. This worrying trend, especially among kids, teens, and young adults, has propelled the state to categorize 7-OH on par with some of the most dangerous controlled substances, such as heroin, LSD, and synthetic fentanyl, drugs recognized for their high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use.
The updated Florida law doesn't pull punches when it comes to these substances, getting 7-OH products designated alongside some of the hardest drugs known to authorities. The law's stance reflects a growing concern over public health, particularly the wellbeing of the state’s youth.
