The Board of Health gathers at the Hopkinton Senior Center for a public hearing regarding regulations on kratom/synthetic THC products. PHOTO/NICK SCHOFIELD

After hearing no opposition from the public, the Board of Health on Thursday night voted unanimously to adopt regulations prohibiting the sale of kratom and synthetic THC products in Hopkinton.

The vote came after a brief public hearing at the Hopkinton Senior Center. A handful of residents showed up to voice their support for the proposed regulations.

Resident Paula Haas stated she was “aghast” that products featuring kratom were available for purchase in town. “I hope that the regulations will be adopted,” she concluded.

Kratom is an extract from a tropical tree native to South Asia. Its traditional use involves chewing the leaf of the tree that has a weak form of the chemical. According to the Food and Drug Administration, some utilize the plant as treatment for pain, coughing, diarrhea, anxiety, depression and opioid use/withdrawal. 

Extracts of the plant have a much higher dose of the tree’s chemical compounds and often are added to energy drinks. In its extracted form, kratom can cause liver toxicity, seizures and substance abuse disorder, according to the FDA.

Synthetic cannabinoids, which often are added to vaping products as a cheaper alternative to cannabis, also carry severe health risks.

Public health nurse Simone Carter, speaking in her capacity as a resident, said she was in support of the regulations. She noted concerns for her children in relation to kratom and synthetic cannabinoids. Carter also said she has family members who have dealt with “very bad health outcomes” in relation to these products.

“I state as a resident that I am fully aware of and in support of the actions … to protect the public health at large,” she said.

Additional support for the regulation was provided by Colleen Souza, a Hopkinton Youth & Family Services social worker also involved with Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention.

Following the public hearing, the Board of Health adopted the new regulations. They will go into effect July 30.

The new policy prohibits the manufacturing, distribution or sale of synthetic cannabinoids or kratom products in Hopkinton. Those in violation could face a fine of $1,000. Subsequent violations face additional fines and the suspension of permits issued by the Board of Health, including tobacco permits.

Thursday’s vote also amended language in the town’s regulations for permitting tobacco product sales. As a result, retailers must comply with all federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and requirements when selling tobacco and related products. Health Director Shaun McAuliffe explained during a previous Board of Health meeting that this would prevent retail stores from selling anything not approved by the FDA and other governing bodies.

In a follow-up interview, Board of Health chair Nasiba Mannan thanked both residents and non-residents who shared their stories and support for the regulation throughout the process. She added that the board felt “very confident” with the regulation after reviewing all related scientific information, public input and legal considerations.

“We hope this makes the town healthier [and] keeps our children safer,” she said. 

Hopkinton joins a growing number of area communities moving to regulate these products in their towns. Marlborough became the fifth municipality in the state to ban kratom last October. Ashland also is preparing to implement regulations, according to an agenda from its most recent Board of Health meeting.

Mannan expressed hope that legislators at the State House will begin working on passing laws related to these substances. “I know there are some bills they are reviewing,” she said.