When it comes to kratom, regulation, not prohibition, is the responsible path forward | Opinion

Regulation, not prohibition

“California must ban kratom products, an opioid-like drug,” (sacbee.com, May 31)

Prohibition has consistently proven ineffective in addressing substance use issues, and kratom is no exception. Instead of making products inaccessible, which drives the market underground, we should focus on regulating kratom to ensure safety and transparency for consumers.

Research from Dr. Oliver Grundman, a leading kratom researcher, highlights that not all kratom products are the same. Proper labeling and manufacturing standards are crucial to mitigate risks associated with kratom products. A regulated market would protect the estimated 15 million Americans who use kratom for legitimate purposes, offering them a viable natural alternative.

Removing access is a failed approach from the “war on drugs” playbook, harming those who most need help. Regulation, not prohibition, is the responsible path forward.

Matthew Lowe

Executive Director, Global Kratom Coalition

Proud of accomplishment

“Camp Fire aftermath shows PG&E’s corporate negligence,” (sacbee.com, June 2)

While this op-ed focuses on PG&E’s bankruptcy following the Camp Fire in November 2018, the author includes a reference to the Fire Victim Trust (FVT), implying a “shortfall in compensation to fire victims.”

There is no shortfall or gap in FVT funding. If there was sufficient money to pay everyone in full, PG&E would not have filed for bankruptcy. The FVT is a limited fund. Over 250,000 claims were filed by nearly 72,000 claimants; 100% have a determination. We timed the sale of the PG&E stock to earn $750 million more than approved by the bankruptcy court and have paid over $12.4 billion to claimants.

I am very proud of what we’ve accomplished.

Cathy Yanni

Trustee, Fire Victim Trust

San Francisco

Our planet can’t wait

“Trump guilty verdict a turning point for California, nation,” (sacbee.com, May 30)

The same Republicans who deny President Joe Biden’s election, Donald Trump’s felony convictions and reports of Russian electoral interference also say that climate change is a hoax.

Let’s stop playing politics with our only planet. We’ve witnessed the stark fact that climate change is real and has disastrous implications all around the country and the world. Do not allow right-wing media to influence your vote. Democrats trust climate scientists and have already enacted basic legislation to combat global warming.

We cannot stop now. Prepare to fight back by financially supporting and voting for Biden and every Democratic candidate this November. Our planet can’t wait.

Sandy White

Fremont

Disgraceful Donald

“Trump guilty verdict a turning point for California, nation,” (sacbee.com, May 30)

No, Donald, Judge Juan Merchan is not corrupt, he is meticulous and honest. But you wouldn’t know how to recognize honesty.

No, Donald, the trial wasn’t rigged. It followed prescribed procedures for giving attention to facts and the real requirements of the law. But you wouldn’t know facts since you spread thick and widespread lies to cover up your felonies.

No, Donald, this wasn’t political retribution, although that is what you keep promising if you ever set foot in the White House again. It was bringing you to legal accountability because even presidents are not above the law.

“Disgrace,” Donald, is a word you like to use when you don’t get your way. The word suits you perfectly.

Bruce Joffe

Piedmont

Amend Prop. 47

“Retail theft bills expedited before Prop. 47 ballot measure,” (sacbee.com, May 23)

Small businesses are the backbone of our state and our communities, yet they are suffering the most. Meanwhile, state politicians continue to ignore the real problem.

Every time we open our doors we risk facing crime that will cause us to close our doors for good.

I have spoken with other local businesses that have shared that employees fear coming to work, and customers do not feel safe shopping or walking in the community due to the fear of being targeted. We need real change, which can only happen by going back to the ballot and amending Proposition 47.

Matthew Oliver

Roseville

Irresponsible practice

“See kid high-five an alligator and other cute moments at Sacramento hospital visit,” (sacbee.com, May 31)

It is troubling that SeaWorld brought wild animals, including a snake, baby kangaroo and sloth, to a Sacramento hospital. While intended to educate young patients about conservation, this visit sent the wrong message about wildlife.

Taking baby animals from their mothers for public exhibition and displaying shy, nocturnal animals like sloths is not okay — it is inhumane. Wild animals experience stress when they are put in crates, transported and displayed in unfamiliar surroundings.

Allowing people to touch wild animals, regardless of the accompanying verbal message, encourages them to wrongly view these animals as pets. It also poses a risk to vulnerable individuals who may unknowingly be exposed to diseases like salmonella, which can be carried by reptiles.

True education instills respect and empathy for wildlife, not the misguided notion that it’s acceptable to use wild animals for entertainment. There are better ways to teach young people about wildlife conservation.

Catherine Doyle

San Andreas