Clark County Bans Kratom Sales in Unincorporated Areas
Clark County Board Meeting | Jan. 16, 2026
Article Summary: The Clark County Board voted unanimously to prohibit the sale, possession, and delivery of Kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine products within the county’s unincorporated areas. The measure follows similar action taken by the City of Marshall and aims to curb the availability of the substances at local businesses.
Kratom Prohibition Key Points:
-
The Ban: Prohibits sales, possession, and delivery of Kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine products in unincorporated Clark County.
-
Reasoning: Officials described it as a “new” drug circulating in gas stations and businesses that needs to be kept out of public hands.
-
Vote Result: Passed unanimously (6-0), with Board Member Mike Parsons absent.
-
Public Input: Resident Warren LeFever supported the measure, noting Marshall City Council had already passed a similar ban.
The Clark County Board on Friday, January 16, 2026, adopted a resolution to ban the sale and possession of Kratom products in the unincorporated areas of the county.
Jonathan Burns presented the issue to the Board, describing Kratom as a “new” drug circulating within Clark County. Burns noted that the substance can be found at “any gas station and other businesses as well.” He provided the Board with a sample packet and informational handouts to demonstrate the product’s accessibility.
“Jonathan was asking the Board to approve the resolution to fine businesses that sell the product to help keep it out of the hands of people,” the meeting minutes state.
During the public comment period, Warren LeFever spoke in favor of the resolution. LeFever informed the Board that the Marshall City Council had recently passed a similar prohibition and encouraged the County to follow suit. He noted that the chemical composition of such substances can change over time, suggesting the resolution might need future updates. LeFever also mentioned that Marshall had passed a measure holding parents responsible for damage caused by their children, suggesting the County Board consider similar legislation in the future.
Board Member Jim Bolin made the motion to approve the resolution, seconded by Brandon Burkybile. The measure passed with a unanimous “aye” vote from the six members present.
Latest News Stories
Judge: Biden-era decree deal requires release of 600+ from ICE detention
Poll: Majority believe free speech in U.S. headed in wrong direction
Illinois quick hits: Chicago treasurer to boycott U.S. securities to protest against Trump; Governor marks opening of new union training center; Illinois farms expected to lose $67.2 million a year
Clark County Board Approves Earlier Sunday Alcohol Sales for Lakeside Oasis
Trump signs executive order to improve foster care
Hegseth announces Operation Southern Spear, targeting narco-terrorists
Justice Department accuses California of racial gerrymandering in redistricting plan
Illinois quick hits: WARN Act reporting shows 1,600 job losses in October
Pritzker, alders oppose Chicago tax plans, property tax hike could be next
State Department designates European Antifa groups foreign terror organizations
NetChoice scores legal win in social media warning lawsuit
Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger draws more support as critics push back