Hi, my name is Mike Colley and I wanted to express my opinion on a proposed ban for kratom in the state of Virginia. I know I'm not currently residing there but my wife and I have actually been considering Virginia as a potential place for us to retire to in the next few years, so that's why I wanted to put in my opinion on this topic.

I've been a user of kratom for the past 8 years and have found it to be a useful and good supplement for our health and lifestyle. We're currently in our late 40's and kratom is one item in our diet and nutrition that has helped us continue to be active and healthy as we age.

I understand the concerns some folks have around this product but when used properly and the product is of good quality, there should be little to no concerns on its efficacy and safety. We have never experienced negative consequences with it and have no dependency issues with it. I very much view kratom as a product that should be managed and regulated like alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis. It should not be so freely available that children or teens can purchase it and it should be held to the same health and safety standards that other consumer products are held to. Just because it has the potential for abuse does not mean it should be outright banned. Hundreds of thousands of people are able to use this product responsibly and in ways that benefit their lives.

Please consider a rational stance on this product that will ensure it can continue to be used safely by the citizens of Virginia.