State Representative Kathleen LaNatra and Kingston Police Chief Brian Holmes are raising urgent concerns about the growing availability and use of kratom by minors in the region. Kratom, a substance derived from a Southeast Asian tree, is being sold openly in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores – with no age restrictions – and is increasingly ending up in the hands of teenagers.
“Too many parents have never even heard of kratom, and yet their kids can walk into a local store and buy it right off the shelf,” said Representative LaNatra. “We’ve seen firsthand how this substance is being marketed as a harmless herbal supplement when in reality it can lead to addiction, psychosis, and even fatal overdoses.”
Kratom is not regulated by the FDA and poses unique risks to adolescents, whose brains are still developing. It acts on the same receptors as opioids and can have sedative or stimulant effects depending on the dose. Regular use has been linked to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, liver toxicity, and seizures. In high doses or when mixed with other substances, kratom can cause respiratory depression, coma, or death.
Chief Holmes echoed the concern: “We’ve encountered young people in our community who are using kratom, unaware of how dangerous it really is. It’s flying under the radar, and that’s a serious problem. There are no safeguards in place – no age restrictions, no proper labeling, no public awareness. Regulating this substance should be a strong consideration towards community safety through legislative priority.”
Kratom is often sold in capsules, powders, or liquid shots and marketed as a “natural” solution for energy or focus, a message that resonates with vulnerable teens. Social media influencers and online content have further fueled its popularity among youth.
“This is a community health and safety issue,” said LaNatra. “We need to act before more kids get hurt.”
For more information on kratom and how to protect young people from its dangers, visit the Mayo Clinic’s guidance on the topic or contact the Kingston Police Department for local resources.