Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes
State Representative Esther Helton-Haynes this week passed a resolution advocating for the regulation or prohibition of kratom in Tennessee.
House Joint Resolution 147 encourages the strictest legislative action to protect citizens by limiting the availability of kratom, an herbal substance that is derived from a tree species native to Southeast Asia. Health experts in recent years have spoken out about the severe dangers of the products.
“While kratom has been touted as a safe way to mitigate pain and boost energy, it can cause devastating and fatal side effects for unsuspecting users,” Rep.
Helton-Haynes said. “These consequences were felt right here in Hamilton County last year, when Matthew Davenport’s life was tragically cut short because of kratom. I thank my colleagues for their bipartisan support of this resolution and I look forward to continuing to find ways to protect Tennesseans from this dangerous and unregulated substance.”
Mr. Davenport, of Chattanooga, passed away on March 18, 2024, following a lethal interaction between his doctor prescribed medication and kratom.
“I’ve poured countless hours into researching this substance and believe wholeheartedly that no family should have to endure the torment that’s gripped mine,” Karen Davenport, Mr. Davenport's mother, told members of the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on March 19.
Commonly referred to as “gas station heroin,” kratom products are widely sold across the United States as mood boosters, anxiety aids and pain relievers. More than 2,000 kratom-related overdoses occurred between 2021 and 2023 across 40 states and Washington, D.C., according to numbers from public health officials reported by the Tampa Bay Times.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration calls kratom a “drug of concern” and warns that it can be addictive and lead to psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions and confusion.
A 2023 report from the Congressional Research Service shows that at least six states have banned kratom. It’s also
prohibited in several countries, including some in Southeast Asia.
House Joint Resolution 147 will now be considered in the Senate before heading to Governor Bill Lee’s desk.
Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes