WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — David Bregger became an advocate for kratom regulation after his 33-year-old son Dan died from the toxic effects of a synthetic kratom-derived product.
“My biggest thing is, I want to save lives in his memory. That’s what I’m doing,” Bregger told 12 News.
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency , kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. When consumed, the tree’s leaves can produce stimulant or sedative effects depending on the dose.
TARGET 12: Why doctors and advocates disagree on kratom
Government regulators and health professionals often oppose the use of the herbal substance, arguing that kratom can be addictive or potentially dangerous.
In Rhode Island, the General Assembly passed a bill that would legalize kratom, but Gov. Dan McKee vetoed the legislation .
“I’m not anti-kratom, I’m pro-regulation. What I’m after is getting nothing but leaf product,” Bregger explained.
