State Emergency Order Bans Kratom Sales in Williamstown

WILLIAMSTOWN — Massachusetts has classified kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance under an emergency order that took effect Aug. 18, immediately restricting sales of a product long sold in smoke shops, convenience stores and gas stations across Williamstown.

TOWN HALL

The state's emergency order, announced Aug. 18 via the town's News Flash feed, addresses what officials describe as public health concerns tied to kratom's widespread availability. The herbal substance has been sold with little regulation at smoke shops, convenience stores and gas stations, including outlets in Williamstown, and the Schedule I classification puts it in the same regulatory category as other controlled substances, effective immediately.

COMING UP

The Zoning Board of Appeals meets Thursday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m., in a hybrid session at 31 North Street and streamed on WilliNet. Library Trustees and the Friends of the Library hold a strategic planning focus group Friday, Aug. 21, at 1 p.m. at the library, and the Historical Commission meets the same day at 2 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room at 31 North Street. The Select Board convenes Monday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m., alongside a meeting of the BRPC North Berkshire Opioid Abatement Collaborative Advisory Board in North Adams. The Williamstown Fire District holds a tax classification hearing Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 4 p.m., followed by its Prudential Committee meeting at 4:30 p.m., both at 580 Main Street.

Compiled from official town feeds, community organizations, and local press. Outside reporting is attributed inline.