ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia’s governor on Thursday signed a bill putting new regulations on the production and sale of products containing kratom, a plant-based supplement.
The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, prohibits the sale of kratom to anyone under 21 and says it must be kept behind a counter or in a display area that is only accessible to store employees. It also limits the concentration of kratom’s main chemical components in products sold in Georgia, imposes new labeling requirements and adds penalties for violations.
Extracted from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, kratom is used to make capsules, powders and liquids. It’s often sold in gas stations or smoke shops, marketed as an aid for pain, anxiety and drug dependence.
Proponents of kratom say it’s a safe, natural herbal supplement that can help manage pain and ease the effects of opioid withdrawal. An estimated 1.7 million Americans used kratom in 2021, according to a national survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Target's chief food, essentials and beauty officer on innovation in the grocery aisle
Palestinian death toll in Gaza rises to 33,729: Ministry
Ukrainian president, senior NATO official meet on support for Kiev
Glamorous Rosamund Pike sports a grungy ensemble and heavy winged eyeliner alongside Anya Taylor
Disaster declaration issued for April snowstorm that caused millions in damage in Maine
ABBA, Blondie, and the Notorious B.I.G. enter the National Recording Registry
Beijing half marathon results under investigation after runners appear to hand win to Chinese star
Malta's new president takes office
Netflix fans DEMAND a second season of streaming site's hit new show just days after its release
Lucy Boynton turns heads in two eye
Ukraine gets more military aid from Europe but Putin warns of consequences if Russian soil is hit
Josie Gibson's dating history: From falling for her Big Brother co