Springfield council presses health office on kratom ban
Town Board · Meeting of September 3, 2026
Springfield councilors question city health staff on enforcement of new kratom ban. The City Council's Health and Human Services and Public Health and Safety committees, chaired by Councilor Brian Santanello and Councilor Martin, reviewed Gov. Maura Healey's Aug. 28 order classifying kratom as a Schedule I drug, stricter than fentanyl.
The city's health commissioner, identified only as Helen, reported eight kratom-linked deaths statewide so far in 2026, after 21 in 2025, and said 500 letters went to stores, but state officials have directed boards of health not to confiscate products. "If you can't confiscate it, they're going to keep selling it," Santanello said. Law Department attorney Danielle confirmed a standby local ordinance could take effect if the one-year state ban lapses.
No votes were taken.
In the full story:
- Who Was There
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- The complete report — 1,720 words
Source: the Town Board meeting of September 3, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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