Kratom banned in two Williamson County communities

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Kratom banned in two Williamson County communities

Mike Mohundro
Mike Mohundro
Digital Content Manager

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May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025 Updated May 13, 2025
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HERRIN, Ill. (WSIL) -- A product on the shelves at gas stations and stores has now been banned in two southern Illinois communities.

Both the City of Marion and City of Herrin banned Kratom during city council meetings on May 12. Both banned the sale and the delivery of Kratom and its derivatives in the cities.

Here is a statement by the City of Marion and a publication with the City of Herrin on the new ordinances.

City of Marion to ban the sale and delivery of Kratom and its derivatives

The City of Marion has taken a bold step to protect the health and safety of its residents by passing Ordinance 4041, which bans the sale, and delivery of Kratom and its derivatives within the City limits. This decision was made during a City Council meeting held on Monday, May 12, 2025, reflecting Marion's commitment to safeguarding the community from emerging public health threats.

Kratom, a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, has gained notoriety for its stimulant and sedative effects. It is commonly consumed as a tablet, capsule, or extract mixed into liquids. Despite its availability in local gas stations and convenience stores, Kratom remains unregulated and poses significant health risks, including psychotic symptoms, psychological and physiological dependence, addiction, organ failure, psychosis, and death. The substance is not approved by the FDA and has already been banned in several states due to its dangerous effects.

Mayor Mike Absher emphasized the importance of this action, stating, “Marion must be a leader, not a follower. By banning Kratom, the City sends a clear message: the lives of our citizens are more important than the profits from selling a deadly, mislabeled product.��

Under the new ordinance, establishments currently selling Kratom will receive a letter outlining the specifics of the ban and a timeline for the removal of the substance from their shelves. Failure to comply with these regulations will result in fines and the seizure of products.

The City of Marion remains dedicated to promoting public health and ensuring the safety of its residents.

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