In the near future, I will introduce companion legislation to Senate Bill 899 that will schedule synthetic kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (commonly referred to as 7-OH) as Schedule I controlled substances under Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act.

Kratom-derived products are currently unregulated and widely available in convenience stores, gas stations, and online across the Commonwealth in forms such as gummies, candies, powders, and drinks. While the natural kratom leaf itself is not federally scheduled, the highly concentrated synthetic byproduct 7-OH produces powerful opioid-like effects and is increasingly found in these consumer products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has identified 7-OH as a substance with significant potential for abuse due to its ability to bind to opioid receptors, and in July the FDA recommended federal scheduling action. Of particular concern is the growing appeal of these brightly packaged, candy-like products to children and teenagers.

Here in Pennsylvania, our poison control centers are sounding the alarm. On August 4, 2025, the Department of Health issued a Health Advisory reporting a sharp increase in calls involving both kratom and 7-OH. Calls involved individuals from 12 months to 80 years of age; naloxone was administered in 25 cases, and 14 individuals required mechanical ventilation.

My legislation takes a precise, targeted approach:

• Schedules only synthetic kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as Schedule I controlled substances
• Does not schedule naturally derived kratom leaf
• Closes the regulatory gap that currently allows unregulated, opioid-like synthetic compounds to be sold alongside candy and energy drinks
• Protects children, teenagers, and all Pennsylvanians from products with documented serious health risks and addiction potential

Your co-sponsorship sends a clear message that Pennsylvania will not wait for federal action while dangerous synthetic opioids are marketed to our kids and families. Please join me in co-sponsoring the Synthetic Kratom & 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Control Act.