Hi, I am not a virgian but I have been made aware of the possible scheduling of kratom. I feel strongly enough about this I would like to give my testimony. I am a Kentucky resident who has used kratom for pain management for over 7 years. I am a very active member in my community and Masonic lodge as an officer. This plant has allowed me to avoid steroid shots and pain management pharmaceuticals. We all know how dangerous those drugs can be. Banning this resource will not only hurt law abiding citizens but will help grow the opioid epidemic. There is zero science that points to dangers in its use of it is third party tested and pure. Have we not learned our lessons from past prohibitions? I assume alcohol will remain available at the gas station to poison communities. This herbal remedy can bring a better quality of life to your citizens. You will doing your state a sad disservice by scheduling this plant. Speak on the opioid epidemic and how terrible it is but this board would be contributing with this scheduling just as pharma has before. If there is question to my Masonic affiliation refer to Robinson-plumb #266 F&AM.   

  Sincerely,

Ryan Dawson