Loren Lippincott, a state senator in Nebraska has recently introduced a bill, Legislative Bill 431, that seeks to ban the sale and possession of Kratom within the state.

Kratom is a tropical evergreen tree (Mitragyna speciosa) native to Southeast Asia. It’s leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their stimulant and pain-relieving properties. Two of the active compounds in Kratom, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to those of opiates but with reportedly milder side effects.

The proposed legislation seeks to classify Kratom as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, placing it in the same category as drugs like heroin and LSD. This classification would effectively make Kratom illegal in Nebraska, with penalties for possession and distribution.

The senator sponsoring the bill cited concerns about the potential for addiction and abuse of Kratom, as well as the lack of regulation and oversight surrounding its sale. Supporters of the ban argue that Kratom poses a public health risk and that its prohibition is necessary to protect Nebraskans.

However, the proposed ban has also faced opposition from those who believe that Kratom can have legitimate medicinal benefits. Some individuals use Kratom to manage pain, anxiety and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Opponents of the ban argue that Kratom can be a safe and effective alternative to prescription medications when used responsibly and that a complete ban would deprive individuals of a valuable tool for managing their health.

To counter Lippincott's bill, state senator Bob Hallstrom has bought Legislative Bill LB 230 'The Kratom Consumer Act' to protect consumers in Nebraska. The bill will not outright ban Kratom but will heavily regulate Kratom products, enforcing strict labeling, packaging and selling rules.

Both bills are currently sitting before the Nebraska Judiciary Committee.

The clash of proposed legislation mirrors the escalating debate in the US regarding the regulation of Kratom. While some health officials and others contend that Kratom can be unsafe and lead to abuse, advocates argue that it should remain readily available as an herbal supplement.