MCLEANSBORO – The first reading of an ordinance banning the sale and delivery of Kratom and derivatives within the city of McLeansboro was held during Tuesday night’s City Council meeting.

Council members now have time to suggest changes to the ordinance before approving it at their January meeting.

Kratom comes from a tropical tree native to southeast Asia and is known for its stimulant and sedative effects. It is commonly consumed as a tablet, capsule, or extract mixed into liquids. It’s available at local gas stations and convenience stores.

Kratom remains unregulated and poses significant health risks including death. The FDA has not approved Kratom, which has been banned in several states due to its dangerous effects.

Earlier this month, Eldorado passed a ban on Kratom. Johnston City did the same in October. Marion and Herrin also banned the substance in May of this year.