SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Lackawanna County and Scranton city leaders and law enforcement officials have announced a proposed ordinance aimed at banning the sale of kratom within city limits.
Lackawanna County District Attorney Brian Gallagher joined Scranton City Councilman Pat Flynn, members of city council, and representatives from the addiction, treatment, and recovery community Monday to unveil the proposal.
Officials say the measure targets kratom, a substance sometimes referred to as “gas station heroin,” citing concerns about its accessibility, psychoactive effects, and potential for addiction.
According to city leaders, kratom is commonly sold over the counter at convenience stores, smoke shops, and gas stations, making it widely available despite growing public safety concerns.
The proposed ordinance is intended to limit access to the substance and address what officials describe as an increasing issue within the community.