Smoke Shop Moratorium and Tobacco Retailer Regulations

Expressed concern that the proposed ordinance does not clearly allow existing shop owners to sell their businesses, making their stores unsalable.

Asked the council to differentiate between natural kratom and dangerous synthetic 7-OH products, noting kratom serves as a vital pain management lifeline for chronic pain patients.

Spoke on behalf of the Global Freedom Coalition, explaining the chemical distinction between natural kratom leaf and concentrated synthetic 7-OH, urging regulation rather than a ban.

Shared personal testimony about how natural kratom helped her overcome debilitating chronic pain and regain mobility, urging the council to regulate synthetics instead of natural kratom.

Testified as a chronic pain patient who relies on natural kratom for relief, asking the council to follow federal and DEA distinctions to target synthetic 7-OH instead of natural products.

Shared that he has used natural kratom for 15 years for insomnia and joint pain, supporting regulations on semi-synthetics but protecting natural botanical products.

A healthcare worker sharing how natural kratom helped her severe chronic back pain, urging the city to regulate synthetics like 7-OH rather than banning natural kratom.

Representing the California Product Association, supported banning synthetic 7-OH and regulating natural kratom products to protect public safety and prevent youth access.

Shared that she has successfully used kratom for over eight years for pain management with low addiction potential, asking the city to keep natural kratom legal.