WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 2355

Kratom; add to Schedule III of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael McLendon and 2 co-sponsors

Mississippi bill proposes criminalizing kratom as Schedule III controlled substance, restricting access to botanical supplement currently legal at federal level.

Died In Committee
#drugpolicy #judiciaryb #judiciary #divisionb
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2355

Legislative bill overview

SB 2355 proposes to classify kratom as a Schedule III controlled substance under Mississippi's Uniform Controlled Substances Act. This would make kratom possession and distribution subject to criminal penalties similar to those for other Schedule III drugs like anabolic steroids and some prescription medications.

Why is this important

Kratom is a botanical product derived from a Southeast Asian tree that has gained significant popularity in the U.S. as a dietary supplement and alternative remedy for pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal. Scheduling it would criminalize a currently legal market, affecting thousands of consumers and vendors in Mississippi while establishing state-level drug policy that differs from federal classification (kratom is not federally scheduled).

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer access and medical use: Kratom advocates argue it provides pain relief and helps opioid addiction recovery; restriction could limit treatment options for those who find it beneficial
  • Lack of federal scheduling: Unlike most Schedule III substances, kratom is not federally controlled, creating inconsistency between state and federal law and raising questions about the appropriate regulatory level
  • Economic impact: Small vendors and the emerging kratom retail industry would face criminal liability, while consumers could face drug charges for possession
  • Scientific evidence gaps: Limited peer-reviewed research exists on kratom's safety and efficacy, making the scheduling decision based on incomplete evidence

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.