Myrtle Beach, January 20, 2026
A Myrtle Beach judge has ruled to allow a wrongful death lawsuit against YoKratom, a local kratom seller, to proceed. The decision highlights concerns about product liability and the ongoing regulatory discussions surrounding health supplements. The lawsuit was filed by Shelly Schubert following allegations that kratom sold by the business contributed to a death. This case sheds light on the need for clarity in the legal framework governing emerging products in the market.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What is the current status of the kratom lawsuit in Myrtle Beach?
A judge denied a motion to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit against local kratom seller YoKratom and its owner, Ben Harrison, ensuring the case will proceed to further examine the claims.
Who is involved in this wrongful death lawsuit?
The lawsuit was filed by plaintiff Shelly Schubert of Locust Grove, Virginia, against the defendants YoKratom and its Myrtle Beach-based owner, Ben Harrison.
Is kratom currently legal to sell and use in South Carolina?
Yes, kratom is currently legal for sale, purchase, and use in South Carolina without statewide restrictions, age limits, or classification as a controlled substance.
Are there any efforts to regulate kratom in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina lawmakers have debated bills like the 2025 SC Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which proposes regulating sales by banning adulterated products and restricting sales to individuals under 21.
What is the FDA’s stance on kratom?
The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical uses and lists it as a “drug of concern,” actively studying its safety and effects.
Judge Rejects Bid to Dismiss Kratom Lawsuit in Myrtle Beach
A recent court decision ensures a wrongful death claim against a local kratom seller will proceed, sparking discussions on product liability and regulatory frameworks for supplements in the market.
Myrtle Beach, SC, a hub of entrepreneurial spirit and burgeoning Myrtle Beach small business, often sees its local enterprises navigating the complexities of emerging markets and consumer demand. The drive and innovation of South Carolina entrepreneurs are vital to the growth of the local economy. However, this dynamic environment also brings into focus the critical balance between business freedom and robust consumer protection, particularly within the evolving landscape of health supplements. The recent legal developments surrounding a local kratom seller highlight these ongoing discussions, reminding us of the importance of clear guidelines for responsible commerce.
The business community in the Grand Strand thrives on innovation and the ability to adapt. As new products and industries emerge, businesses, consumers, and regulators collectively grapple with establishing appropriate standards. This case in Myrtle Beach serves as a pertinent example of how the legal system interacts with private enterprise, shaping the responsibilities and expectations for those operating within innovative sectors of the Myrtle Beach economy.
Legal Action Proceeds Against Local Kratom Seller
A significant legal development has occurred in Myrtle Beach, as a judge denied a motion to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit filed against YoKratom, a local kratom seller, and its owner, Ben Harrison. This decision means the lawsuit will move forward, allowing the court to further examine the claims presented. The plaintiff in this case is Shelly Schubert of Locust Grove, Virginia.
The Nature of the Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The lawsuit brought by Shelly Schubert is a wrongful death claim. Such lawsuits typically seek to hold a party accountable for a death believed to be caused by their actions, products, or negligence. The continuation of this case underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the legal system’s commitment to thorough review.
Current Legal Status of Kratom in South Carolina
Kratom, a plant-based supplement, currently holds a legal status in South Carolina that allows for its sale, purchase, and use without statewide restrictions. This means that individuals and Myrtle Beach SC business entities can freely access these products.
There are no age restrictions currently enforced at the state level for purchasing kratom in South Carolina, and the substance is not classified as a controlled substance. Furthermore, no major city or county within South Carolina has introduced bans or notable limitations on kratom to date, providing consistency across the state.
However, the regulatory landscape is not static. South Carolina lawmakers have debated several kratom-related bills in recent years. For instance, House Bill 3742 in 2023 aimed to classify kratom as a Schedule IV controlled substance but did not advance. In 2025, the South Carolina Kratom Consumer Protection Act was introduced, seeking to regulate kratom sales by banning adulterated products and restricting sales to individuals under 21. These bills remain under review. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved kratom for any uses and lists it as a “drug of concern,” actively studying its use and safety.
Implications for Local Businesses and Consumer Confidence
This ongoing legal process carries significant implications for Myrtle Beach small business owners, especially those operating in the supplement industry. Cases like this highlight the critical importance of product safety, accurate representation, and transparency in business practices. For South Carolina entrepreneurs, understanding and adhering to evolving legal and regulatory standards is paramount not only for compliance but also for building and maintaining consumer trust.
The entrepreneurial spirit thrives when there is clarity and a predictable legal environment. While the pursuit of innovation is celebrated, businesses must also navigate the responsibilities that come with introducing products to the market. This scenario underscores the need for local businesses to operate with diligence and integrity, reinforcing consumer confidence in the diverse offerings of the Myrtle Beach economy.
Community and Economic Considerations
While this lawsuit focuses on a specific business, its progression contributes to broader conversations within the Myrtle Beach community regarding accountability and responsible business practices. A robust local economy benefits from a legal framework that supports legitimate entrepreneurial ventures while also safeguarding public welfare. The outcome of such cases can help shape future expectations for product manufacturers and retailers, influencing how innovative products are introduced and regulated in the market.
The desire for a business-friendly environment that fosters growth and creates jobs often goes hand-in-hand with the community’s expectation of safety and ethical conduct. This balance is crucial for the sustained development of the Grand Strand’s vibrant economic landscape.
Key Features of the Kratom Lawsuit in Myrtle Beach
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Case Type | Wrongful Death Lawsuit | Local |
| Plaintiff | Shelly Schubert of Locust Grove, VA | Local |
| Defendants | YoKratom and owner Ben Harrison (Myrtle Beach-based) | Local |
| Legal Status of Kratom in SC | Currently legal to buy, sell, and use; no statewide age restrictions; not a controlled substance. No local bans reported. | State-level |
| Regulatory Debates | Bills (e.g., HB 3742, SC Kratom Consumer Protection Act in 2025) debated to regulate sales, age limits, and product standards. | State-level |
| FDA Stance on Kratom | No FDA-approved uses; listed as a “drug of concern.” | Nationwide |
Moving Forward: Supporting a Responsible Economy
The progression of the lawsuit against the Myrtle Beach kratom seller serves as a vital reminder for all involved in the Myrtle Beach SC business community about the importance of navigating new markets with both innovation and responsibility. As South Carolina entrepreneurs continue to drive economic growth and job creation, the ongoing legal discussions will undoubtedly inform and refine the framework within which businesses operate.
Maintaining a dynamic yet secure environment for consumers and businesses alike is key to the continued prosperity of the Grand Strand. We encourage our readers to remain informed about these legal and regulatory developments and to actively support Myrtle Beach small business ventures that prioritize transparency, safety, and community well-being.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Myrtle Beach Kratom Business Faces Legal Oversight
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
