I find kratom to be an effective and mild supplement to aid in relaxation. The evidence supports the conclusion that it is considerably less dangerous than alcohol and tobacco, which statistically cost society far less in terms of injury and addiction. I am not a conspiracy-monger but have concluded that, in this case, the pharmaceutical industry is genuinely advocating against kratom solely for the sake of their own profits; the artificial alternatives they offer are higher-priced, less effective, and have more severe side effects than kratom, which is used traditionally in some countries without a history of significant health or social problems. The proposed kratom ban is a solution in search of a problem and is a not sensible for the government to pursue. Many states have enacted, or are considering, acts to ensure that kratom is safe and available only to adults, again like alcohol and tobacco, which are more dangerous, and I encourage the Virginia legislature and responsible agencies to do the same. Thank you.