In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Kratom community, Louisiana lawmakers have passed a bill to ban Kratom—just one signature from Governor Jeff Landry away from becoming law. The bill, spearheaded by Senator Jay Morris and carried in the House by Rep. Debbie Villio, paints a grim picture for Kratom access in the Bayou State.
The Louisiana House voted overwhelmingly in favor of the ban, 86–6, following a 26–11 vote in the Senate earlier this month. Unless Governor Landry vetoes or amends the bill, Kratom will soon be illegal throughout the state.
Why Is This Happening?
“Our convenience stores (and) our gas stations are looted with this bad, bad stuff.”
— Rep. Debbie Villio (R-Kenner)
Legislators supporting the ban argue that Kratom is dangerous, addictive, and unregulated. Rep. Villio labeled it “cloaked in deception” and accused vendors of making misleading claims. She cited emotional appeals about community safety and the protection of children, despite limited scientific consensus or FDA regulation on the substance’s risks.
Opponents of the bill, such as Rep. Peter Egan, attempted to introduce amendments that would allow for the continued sale of naturally-occurring, unadulterated Kratom. These amendments were rejected. Egan pointed out that approximately 300,000 Louisianians use Kratom responsibly—many for its reported ability to support focus, energy, or general well-being.
“Those that use leaf Kratom want to live normal, stable lives.”
— Rep. Peter Egan (R-Covington)
What This Means for You
If you live in Louisiana and are a Kratom consumer, this ban could strip you of access to a botanical that has become a vital part of your daily wellness routine. More than that, this ban reflects a larger issue: a continued misunderstanding and stigmatization of natural supplements like Kratom, and a refusal to pursue science-based, consumer-focused regulation instead of prohibition.
This also sets a dangerous precedent. If Louisiana follows through with the ban, other states may feel emboldened to introduce similar legislation. Kratom consumers everywhere must remain informed, engaged, and ready to act.
A Wake-Up Call for the Entire Kratom Community
This isn’t just about Louisiana—this is about the future of Kratom in the United States.
For the first time since 2017, a state has advanced a full ban on Kratom this far through the legislative process. That’s eight years without a single state-level prohibition gaining traction—until now. This sudden shift should be a wake-up call for the entire Kratom community. If this ban becomes law, it could pave the way for similar efforts in other states. We cannot allow misinformation and fear-based narratives to undo years of progress.
Adding to the concern, the bill’s sponsor, Senator Jay Morris, has received notable campaign contributions from pharmaceutical industry groups, raising questions about the motives behind this legislation. As Kratom continues to grow in popularity as a natural alternative, the pharmaceutical lobby has a vested interest in suppressing it. This underscores the importance of grassroots advocacy—because when money talks, it’s up to the people to speak louder.
What You Can Do: Make Your Voice Heard
Now is the time to act. This bill is not yet law—it still awaits Governor Landry’s signature. As a Louisiana resident, your voice matters. Here’s how you can make a difference:
📨 Contact Governor Jeff Landry
Tell the governor why Kratom is important to you. Share your personal story, emphasize responsible use, and urge him to consider vetoing the bill or at least amending it to allow for regulated access.
📞 Phone: (225) 342-7015
💻 Online contact form: https://louisiana.gov
🗣️ Reach Out to Your Local Representatives
Even if your representative voted for the bill, it’s still worth letting them know how you feel. Advocacy is most powerful when it comes from engaged constituents.
Find your rep here: https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx
📝 Share Your Story
Whether on social media, in Kratom forums, or through letters to local newspapers, share how Kratom has impacted your life. Make it clear that responsible consumers are not criminals—they are people seeking natural solutions for everyday challenges.
Kraken Kratom’s Stance
At Kraken Kratom, we have always supported responsible Kratom use, rigorous quality standards, and transparent education. We back common-sense regulations that protect consumers without eliminating access. What we don’t support is uninformed fearmongering and legislative overreach that penalizes responsible adults.
We urge our customers in Louisiana—and beyond—to stay informed and active in the fight to keep Kratom legal and accessible. Let’s push for regulation, not prohibition.
Stay Kraken Strong 💪
This is not the first time Kratom has faced challenges, and it won’t be the last. But with your support, advocacy, and commitment to education, we can make a difference.
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“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
