Summary
Kansas lawmakers have passed a bill to classify kratom as a highly restricted substance, similar to heroin, due to concerns about a potent compound it contains. This would make the sale and possession of kratom illegal in the state. The Kansas Senate approved the bill, which will now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Key Facts
- Kansas aims to ban kratom by classifying it under the state's strictest drug category.
- The Senate Bill 497 targets a potent compound in kratom called 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH.
- The Kansas Senate voted 33-5 to support the bill, which would make kratom illegal.
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that 7-OH is a risky compound not approved for use in foods or supplements.
- Critics of the ban are concerned it could negatively affect those using kratom for opioid recovery.
- Supporters say a complete ban would prevent legal loopholes for stronger kratom-based products.
- The bill will also broaden the state's definition of fentanyl-related drugs.
