Ohio Lawmaker Calls for Emergency Protections for Minors as Legislature Stalls on Kratom Policy

Why it matters

Ohio has debated kratom regulation for years without passing legislation, leaving the market largely unregulated as of mid-2026. A state lawmaker's direct appeal to the governor to act via executive authority — rather than wait for the legislature — reflects a pattern emerging across multiple states where public health concerns are outpacing the legislative process.

The big picture

Ohio is among a growing group of states where the legislature has not reached consensus on kratom but where public pressure for action is mounting. The Ohio Board of Pharmacy has been debating its regulatory authority over kratom, and Gov. DeWine has directed state agencies to address the issue. With summer recess underway, months may pass before Ohio lawmakers revisit the question, creating a gap that state officials are being urged to fill through existing regulatory tools.

Key findings

• Ohio lacks any state law specifically regulating natural kratom as of June 2026
• Rep. Brennan personally supports a full ban but acknowledges he is currently in the minority in the legislature
• The Ohio Board of Pharmacy's authority to regulate natural kratom was under discussion at the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR)
• Brennan called for a coordinated public education campaign involving four state agencies: Ohio Dept. of Health, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Agriculture, and the Board of Pharmacy
• The legislature is on summer recess and unlikely to revisit kratom legislation until later in 2026

What they say

"The reality is that the General Assembly has debated kratom for years without reaching a consensus," said Rep. Brennan. "Until the Legislature finally acts, we cannot simply do nothing."

Bottom line

With Ohio's legislature gridlocked on kratom and summer recess underway, a state representative is urging the governor to use all available executive and regulatory tools to protect minors and educate consumers — mirroring tactics used in Florida and other states that bypassed legislatures to impose restrictions.