Missouri Senate Bill Would Regulate Kratom and Classify 7-OH as Schedule I Controlled Substance

Why it matters

Missouri's SB 1605 represents the latest state-level attempt to thread the needle between prohibiting dangerous synthetic 7-OH and preserving access to natural kratom products — a distinction that is driving divergent legislative outcomes across the country.

The big picture

Missouri joins over a dozen states that are grappling with how to address the 7-OH crisis without banning all kratom. Some states, like Connecticut and Ohio, have moved to classify 7-OH as Schedule I. Others have passed Kratom Consumer Protection Act frameworks allowing natural leaf while banning synthetically enhanced products. Missouri's bill combines both elements: a regulatory framework for kratom with outright prohibition of 7-OH.

Key findings

• Missouri SB 1605 creates a regulatory framework for kratom products, including labeling, testing, and sale restrictions
• The bill bans 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) outright, classifying it as a Schedule I controlled substance
• Possession of 7-OH above certain amounts would trigger Schedule I drug penalties
• The legislation aims to protect consumers — especially children — from potent substances sold with minimal oversight
• 7-OH is commonly described as "gas station heroin" by legislators and public health officials in Missouri
• The bill is part of a broader national pattern of states moving before DEA issues a federal ruling on 7-OH scheduling

What they say

"The bill sets up a framework to regulate kratom products, but it goes a step further by banning 7-OH outright. If someone has it in certain amounts, it would be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance," described Sen. Henderson's Capitol Report.

Bottom line

Missouri is moving to regulate natural kratom while banning 7-OH as Schedule I — a hybrid approach that is gaining traction in states that want to avoid both total prohibition and complete inaction.