OPPOSE CLASSIFYING NATURAL KRATOM AS A SCHEDULE I DRUG

Subject: Please Protect Natural Kratom Tea/Powder With Sensible Regulation, Not a Ban

Dear Ohio Board of Pharmacy,

I’m writing to respectfully ask you to protect natural kratom leaf and powder from being classified as a Schedule I drug. I fully support reasonable, consumer-focused regulation, but I strongly oppose any legislation that would ban the natural plant form.

I want to be very clear:
I am not advocating for synthetic derivatives or 7-hydroxymitragynine products.
I am requesting protection only for natural kratom tea, leaf, and powder, which thousands of Ohio residents use safely and responsibly.

A ban would:
• Push consumers toward unsafe, unregulated, or synthetic products
• Harm responsible adults who benefit from natural kratom
• Remove access to a plant that has been used traditionally for centuries
• Increase risk by moving the market to the black or informal market

Instead, I support sensible regulation such as:
• Age restrictions (18+ or 21+)
• Mandatory lab testing for contaminants and adulterants
• Limits on synthetic additives and enhanced products
• Clear labeling, packaging standards, and consumer education
• Penalties for retailers who sell untested or unsafe products

These protections ensure public safety while allowing Ohioans continued access to the natural, unadulterated plant they rely on.

Please stand with people like me and choose regulation over prohibition.
Protect natural kratom tea and powder, and help create a safe, controlled marketplace.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City]