Public Notice
ORDINANCE NO. 824
AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE SALE OF MITRAGYNA SPECIOSA
KORTH (KRATOM) AND/OR ANY OF ITS ANALOG IN THE CITY OF
PONCHATOULA
WHEREAS, Kratom is an herbal extract that comes from the leaves of an
evergreen tree (Mitragyna speciosa) grown in Southeast Asia. Although people who take
kratom believe in its value, researchers who have studied kratom think its side effects and
safety problems more than offset any potential benefits; and
WHEREAS, Kratom has been reported to cause abnormal brain functions when
taken with prescription medicine. The effects of Kratom become stronger as the quantity
taken increases and is known to cause death. Kratom is not currently regulated in the
United States, and federal agencies are taking action to combat false claims about kratom;
and studies on the effects of kratom have identified many safety concerns and no clear
benefits.
WHEREAS, the Ponchatoula City Council does hereby declare that the use of
Mitragyna Speciosa Korth (Kratom) and/or any of its analogs is a serious problem
affecting the health and welfare of all citizens. The Ponchatoula City Council does further
declare and determine that all reasonable steps should be taken to prohibit the sale of
Mitragyna Speciosa Korth (Kratom) and/or any of its analogs in the City of Ponchatoula;
and
WHEREAS, the Ponchatoula City Council hereby deems it necessary and proper
for good government, order and protection of persons and property, and for the
preservation of public health, safety and welfare of the City and its inhabitants; and
NOW THEREFOR BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL of the City of Ponchatoula, State of Louisiana, the following is added to
Chapter 30 of the Ponchatoula Code of Ordinances:
OFFENSES AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
Prohibiting the sale of Mitragyna Speciosa Korth (Kratom) and/or any of its analog
(a) It shall be illegal for any person, business, or legal entity to sell, distribute, or possess
with the intent to sell or distribute Mitragyna Speciosa Korth (Kratom) and/or any of its
analogs in the City of Ponchatoula.
(b) Penalties.
(1) On a first conviction for a violation of the provisions of subsection (a) the
person shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or imprisoned for not
more than sixty (60) days, or both.
(2) On a second conviction for a violation of the provisions of subsection (a) the
person shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or imprisoned for not
more than sixty (60) days, or both.
(3) On a third or subsequent offense conviction for a violation of the provisions of
subsection (a) the person shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or
imprisoned for not more than sixty (60) days, or both. and they shall be subject to a
forfeiture of their business license or other occupational license to operate in the City.
A motion was made by Mr. Sandifer to adopt the ordinance and was duly seconded by
Mrs. Batiste.
This ordinance having been introduced on September 9, 2024, 2024 by Mrs. Batiste
notice of public hearing having been published, said public hearing having been held, and
been read by the title at a regular meeting of the City Council on November 4, 2024 and
called for final passage and having been put to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:
YEAS: Sandifer, Batiste, Elstrott, Wright
NAYS: Toomer
ABSTAIN: none
ABSENT: none
This ordinance shall become effective 10 days after its passage as required by R.S.
33:4712(C).
_________________________
James W. Daniels, Mayor
___________________________
Nikki James, City Clerk
Delivered to Mayor: November 6, 2024
Received from Mayor: November 6, 2024
Effective Date: November 14, 2024