by Louisiana Illuminator, Louisiana Illuminator
May 16, 2025

You might have heard of kratom – but it’s more likely you’ve seen it, or at least the word  – written in neon on the front of a smoke shop — or on a little bottle next to the checkout at a convenience store.

Technically, kratom is not a drug, but some people use it like one. In many cases, they’re using it to help them get off of drugs, like highly addictive opioids.

But there are other kratom stories, and they don’t have happy endings. 

There are two bills being debated in the Louisiana Legislature – one seeks to ban kratom entirely, and the other would regulate how it’s packaged and sold, keeping it available for people who say it’s changed their lives for the better. 

In this episode, Illuminator editor Greg LaRose explores both sides of the kratom issue. You’ll hear from the people it affects, good and bad and explore the science behind substance and the disputes over it.

Plus, we’ll chip away at the misinformation that surrounds the political debate – here in Louisiana and in other states that have chosen to regulate, ban and un-ban the substance.

How to listen:

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Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com.

The post ‘The Light Switch’ Episode 6: Kratom collision course appeared first on lailluminator.com

Note: The following A.I. based commentary is not part of the original article, reproduced above, but is offered in the hopes that it will promote greater media literacy and critical thinking, by making any potential bias more visible to the reader –Staff Editor.

Political Bias Rating: Centrist

The content presents a neutral exploration of the kratom debate, examining both sides of the issue without expressing a strong ideological stance. It highlights the contrasting perspectives regarding kratom’s regulation, mentioning both the arguments for banning it and those for keeping it available. The inclusion of voices from individuals who have benefited from kratom, as well as those who have experienced negative consequences, suggests a balanced approach. Additionally, the mention of misinformation around the debate indicates an attempt to address a complex issue without taking a particular political side.

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