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Ayotte pushes for crackdown on Kratom

Ayotte pushes for crackdown on Kratom

FILE - This Sept. 27, 2017 file photo shows kratom capsules in Albany, N.Y. Photo: Associated Press/AP Photo/Mary Esch, File


CONCORD, N.H.- Gov. Kelly Ayotte has confirmed the regulation of Kratom remains a top priority for her in 2026.

Last week the Governor said she’s urging the Legislature to listen to concerns from parents and law enforcement and take action to make sure kids can’t access harmful substances like Kratom.

Calls for further review come after the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee recently backed legislation that would restrict the sales of the herbal supplement also referred to as “gas station heroin.”

Under the plan proposed by Rep. Nancy Murphy of Merrimack, the State Liquor Commission would be tasked with enforcing the ban which would be added to Senate Bill 557, a bill that would classify synthetic and semi-synthetic Kratom as a Schedule II drug that adult consumers couldn’t purchase without a prescription.

If passed officials say the legislation could wipe out roughly 75% of the existing market.

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