Story perspectives

Kansas Governor Bans 7-Hydroxymitragynine Amid Opioid Concerns

4/13/2026

Center

Governor Bans Kratom

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2365, banning 7-hydroxymitragynine and several opioids as Schedule I.
The measure cites concerns about 7-OH’s opioid-like effects and federal safety uncertainty with kratom.
Missouri is considering similar restrictions, signaling a broader regulatory trend.
Independence and Kansas City have already banned 7-OH and limited kratom sales to adults 21 and older.
The FDA has not approved kratom for medical use, prompting calls for caution.

Left

CDC Warns Kratom

A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report shows kratom poisonings rising, driven by 7-OH.
Experts warn bans on kratom could harm patients using it for pain or recovery.
Natural kratom, from Mitragyna speciosa, is relatively safe, while 7-OH has opioid-like risks.
Many users report kratom helps with chronic pain and addiction recovery.
Advocates call for regulated access to natural kratom, noting benefits over opioids.

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Governor Bans Kratom

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2365, banning 7-hydroxymitragynine and several opioids as Schedule I.
The measure cites concerns about 7-OH’s opioid-like effects and federal safety uncertainty with kratom.
Missouri is considering similar restrictions, signaling a broader regulatory trend.
Independence and Kansas City have already banned 7-OH and limited kratom sales to adults 21 and older.
The FDA has not approved kratom for medical use, prompting calls for caution.

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