Ohio Introduces Kratom Consumer Protection Act HB 587, Targeting Dangerous Synthetic 7-OH Products

Why it matters

Ohio's HB 587 represents the consumer-protection approach to kratom regulation: keeping natural kratom legal while banning synthetic derivatives and high-dose 7-OH products, following the FDA's own recent steps to restrict 7-OH. It contrasts with the outright bans enacted in states like Tennessee.

The big picture

The Kratom Consumer Protection Act model has been introduced in multiple states as an alternative to prohibition. Ohio's bill explicitly follows the FDA's 2025 announcement to classify 7-OH as a controlled substance, reflecting alignment between state and federal regulatory directions. The bill would give Ohio's Department of Agriculture licensing authority over kratom distributors.

Key findings

• Ohio Representatives Mike Odioso and Brian Lorenz introduced HB 587, the Kratom Consumer Protection Act
• The bill prohibits the sale of kratom products made from synthetic alkaloids or containing high concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine
• It charges the Ohio Department of Agriculture with licensing kratom distributors and retailers
• The bill follows the FDA's 2025 announcement to begin the process of classifying 7-OH as a controlled substance
• Natural, pure kratom would remain legal under the bill; only synthetic and high-7-OH products would be banned
• HB 587 awaits committee assignment in the Ohio House

What they say

"Ohioans from my district and across the state who consume kratom deserve to know the products they purchase are safe and sold in regulated venues. This legislation will also outlaw the sale of the insidiously dangerous synthetic derivatives and compounds." — Rep. Mike Odioso (R-Green Township)

Bottom line

Ohio's HB 587 takes aim at synthetic kratom and concentrated 7-OH products specifically, preserving access to natural kratom while aligning with the FDA's regulatory direction.