Kratom In Ascension & Rapides: Is it Still Banned In These Parishes? [LA Kratom Laws 2024]

While Kratom remains legal in the majority of states, a few counties and cities in the United States have chosen to prohibit its use. One such state is Louisiana, which stands apart with its unique division into parishes instead of counties or cities. 

Among the various parishes in the state, Ascension and Rapides have emerged as focal points of discussion. Both areas have been subject to controversy due to their past associations with Kratom. This situation compels us to ponder: are the rumors true? Is Kratom In Ascension & Rapides still banned? Have these areas truly banned the use of Mitragyna supplements? And if these rumors hold true, where can I find the best Kratom near me now? 

Before digging into the specifics of the legislation, nearby buying options, and shipping of Kratom products within these parishes, it is essential to grasp the broader context of the herb’s legality in Louisiana.

Is Kratom Legal in Louisiana? Which Parishes In the State Have Outlawed the Use of Kratom? 

Although Kratom is generally regarded as a legal plant in Louisiana, the parishes of Ascension and Rapides have chosen to handle it differently.

In the year 2022, these areas found themselves at the center of attention after the introduction of a few local bills, seeking to impose restrictions on Kratom. This sudden development caused quite a stir among both government officials and the general public. As a result, three parishes, including Ascension and Rapides, decided to implement bans on Kratom.

Ascension Parish took the lead in this regard, implementing a ban on August 18, 2022, through the enactment of Chapter 11, Article 8. This particular legislation specifically prohibits the sale of Kratom In Ascension & Rapides. Following suit, Rapides Parish joined the ranks on October 10, 2022, making it illegal to possess Mitragyna speciosa as outlined in Article I Section 19-22.

To gain more understanding of this evolving situation, there is further information for you to follow.

History of Kratom Laws In Louisiana 

The historical journey of Kratom in Louisiana involves the following six stages: 

1) Initial Considerations (2014):

In 2014, Louisiana’s state legislators made their first attempt to address the place of Kratom in the state. They contemplated the possibility of including Mitragyna speciosa and its alkaloids in the list of controlled substances.

2) A Close Call (2015):

The year 2015 witnessed a pivotal moment as the ban on Kratom appeared to be within reach. Although the bill passed, the alkaloids found in the herb were ultimately excluded from the controlled substances list, sparing it from immediate prohibition.

3) In-Depth Evaluation (2018):

Recognizing the need for a detailed analysis of Kratom, legislators entrusted the Louisiana Department of Health with the responsibility of studying it. The objective was to determine whether it should be deemed illegal within the state or not. 

4) A Similar Bill (2019):

In continuation of previous efforts, a corresponding bill was ratified in 2019. It also highlighted the ongoing concerns and interests in implementing effective regulations for Kratom use.

5) The Kratom Consumer Protection Act (2020):

In 2020, legislators contemplated a bill known as the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). The main purpose of this act was to regulate the use of this botanical within the state. Unfortunately, this endeavor did not succeed in becoming law.

6) The Recent Development (2023):

Following the implementation of bans in 2022, Louisiana entered a new chapter on June 26, 2023, with the signing of the most recent bill concerning Kratom. This legislation adds mitragynine and 7-hydroxmitragynine, to the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law. The effective date for this addition was set for August 1, 2023, which means that it’s currently in effect. 

Penalties for Interacting with Kratom Post-Ban

In parishes like Ascension and Rapides, engaging in any activities related to Mitragyna is highly prohibited due to its complete illegal status. Those who fail to abide by these laws and violate them may face significant consequences. For a first offense, individuals can be subjected to a fine of $500 to $1,500, a jail term of six months, or both.

Where Can I Buy Kratom Near Me Amidst the Ban?

If you reside in Ascension or Rapides Parishes, acquiring this botanical may seem nearly impossible.

But do not despair, as there is still a legal way to purchase and enjoy the benefits of Kratom by simply traveling to nearby parishes where it remains legal. Numerous head shops and vape stores offer this supplement, but the most advantageous deals can be found online.

Benefits of Buying Kratom Online: 

Here’s why we suggest placing your order with a reputable online Kratom brand:

Provides Cost-saving Options through valuable Discounts and Reward Points: 

When it comes to purchasing Kratom products, going online can save you valuable time and money. Online retailers offer superior products at more affordable prices compared to physical stores. Operating a brick-and-mortar store comes with high expenses, and those costs are reflected in the prices you encounter. However, online stores eliminate the need for middlemen, enabling them to provide discounts, bulk pricing options, and reward programs that are not commonly found locally. For instance, at Supernatural Botanicals, customers frequently enjoy discounts, reward points, and promotional prices on selective items, adding extra value to their purchases.

Simplifies supplier Research and gives Assurance of Quality:

In addition to these features, researching potential suppliers becomes much simpler when you shop online. Local stores often lack specialized staff, making it challenging to determine the quality of the product. On the other hand, online shopping allows you to explore the company’s website, request lab reports, peruse user reviews, and seek guidance from experienced users on social media and forums. For example, Supernatural Botanicals conducts regular quality tests to ensure the excellence of their Kratom. Each product undergoes rigorous laboratory testing before packaging, guaranteeing customer satisfaction with the finest strains available.

Local Kratom Retailers Near Ascension & Rapides, LA

The information shared earlier does not mean that accessing affordable and high-quality Kratom in Louisiana is out of your reach. Despite the strict regulations regarding the herb, you can still easily find it in many physical stores nearby. So, if you have the urge to examine the product up close, feel its texture, and have a chat with the friendly customer service team regarding your herbal requirements, we’re here to assist you. Below, we present a list of the finest stores in the state, conveniently located near Ascension & Rapides Parishes.

6 Kratom Shops Near Rapides Parish: 

1. Smoker’s Heaven the Vape & smoke shop

Exact Location: 3339 Jackson St, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States.

Google Rating: 4.5

Phone Number: +1 318-442-6134 

Service Hours: 8 am – 10 pm 

2. Smokers Paradise

Exact Location: 3128 LA-28, Pineville, LA 71360, United States.

Google Rating: 4.6

Phone Number: +1 318-445-4900

Service Hours: 8 am – 8 pm 

3. Smoke Shop

Exact Location: 729 MacArthur Dr, Alexandria, LA 71303, United States.

Google Rating: 4.6

Phone Number: +1 318-445-6558 

Service Hours: 8 am – 5:30 pm

4. BROZ Tobacco & Smokeshop

Exact Location: 6503 Coliseum Blvd, Alexandria, LA 71303, United States.

Google Rating: 4.3

Phone Number: +1 318-704-5823

Service Hours: 9 am – 10 pm

5. One Stop Wholesale – Vaping and Smoking Supply

Exact Location: 3710 Lee St, Alexandria, LA 71302, United States.

Google Rating: 4.5

Phone Number: +1 318-704-0910

Service Hours: 10 am – 8 pm

6. Tobacco Plus

Exact Location: 3760 S MacArthur Dr, Alexandria, LA 71302, United States.

Google Rating: 3.6

Phone Number: +1 318-487-2914

Service Hours: 6 am – 9 pm

6 Kratom Shops Near Ascension Parish: 

1. Hashtags Smoke Shop

Exact Location: 12524 Jefferson Hwy a, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, United States.

Google Rating: 4.7

Phone Number: +1 225-953-8191

Service Hours: 9:30 am – 9 pm

2. GeauxKratom

Exact Location: 850 Gardere Ln Suite B, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, United States. 

Google Rating: 4.0

Phone Number: +1 225-746-8003

Service Hours: 9 am – 9 pm

3. Hi Life Wonderland

Exact Location: 159 W State St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States.

Google Rating: 4.3

Phone Number: +1 225-388-9199

Service Hours: 8 am – 12 am

4. Ra Shop #5 Nicholson BR

Exact Location: 5201 Nicholson Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, United States.

Google Rating: 4.3

Phone Number: +1 225-763-9091

Service Hours: 9 am – 10 pm

5. Cloud Vape shop

Exact Location: 606 S Burnside Ave, Gonzales, LA 70737, United States.

Google Rating: 4.6

Phone Number: +1 225-647-3300

Service Hours: 9 am – 10 pm

6. Dr. FeelGood CBD shop

Exact Location: 12240 Coursey Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, United States.

Google Rating: 5.0

Phone Number: +1 225-960-2148

Service Hours: 10 am – 8 pm

So, don’t let the banning scenario discourage you from obtaining this botanical, as there are still legal means available to acquire it locally or through online platforms! 

What Does the Future Hold for Kratom in Ascension & Rapides Parishes? Is There Hope for the Ban to be Lifted?

Unfortunately, the outlook for Kratom in these parishes remains uncertain. Since the ban has been a contentious issue for years, there seems to be little possibility of it being lifted in Ascension & Rapides Parishes.

However, despite the discouraging news and numerous attempts to prohibit this supplement in Louisiana, it continues to enjoy popularity among the local community. Whenever there is talk of a ban, dedicated supporters step forward and work towards overturning the legislation. This demonstrates the significant value that people in this state place on Kratom as an herbal remedy.

Wrapping up: How Can You Show Your Support 

If you also believe that Kratom should be recognized as a legal botanical in Ascension & Rapides, there are actions you can take. 

One effective way to contribute is by standing behind the efforts of the American Kratom Association (AKA) (an organization that advocates for the safe regulation of Kratom across the United States).  

In addition to supporting the AKA, you can also write letters to state legislators to express your support for this regulation. By voicing your thoughts and concerns, you can play an integral role in fostering a welcoming environment for Kratom in these parishes. Perhaps, in this way, you’ll have the opportunity to establish new places to buy Kratom near you.

Your voice holds immense power! Don’t let these challenging circumstances discourage you from making a difference!

Kate Freeman

Kate Freeman is the wellpreneur behind Kratomguides.com, an informative blog focused on spreading the goodness of Mitragyna Speciosa. Kate supports scientific research on this natural tree “Kratom” and believes that this herb can help millions of people to live a healthier life. She works with many kratom vendors to help extend their brand influence online. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking, trying new recipes, and locating reliable stores selling kratom on sale.