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SB 2214

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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Barrett

Mississippi bill to classify kratom as Schedule III controlled substance, criminalizing possession and sales of the currently legal botanical product.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 2214

Legislative bill overview

SB 2214 would classify kratom as a Schedule III controlled substance under Mississippi's Uniform Controlled Substances Act. This action would place kratom in the same regulatory category as drugs like anabolic steroids and certain barbiturates, making possession without a prescription illegal and subjecting it to criminal penalties.

Why is this important

Kratom is currently legal and widely sold in Mississippi as a dietary supplement, with a growing consumer base. Reclassifying it would criminalize current users and sellers, while also affecting the commercial market for vendors who legally distribute the plant. This reflects ongoing national debate over kratom's legal status, as the FDA has expressed safety concerns while some users advocate for its therapeutic benefits.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health vs. consumer access: Supporters argue Schedule III status protects users from an unregulated substance; opponents claim it restricts access to a plant many use for pain management and opioid withdrawal
  • Scientific evidence disagreement: The bill assumes kratom poses sufficient risk to warrant scheduling, but the scientific community remains divided on its safety profile and abuse potential
  • Economic impact on businesses: Legal kratom retailers would be forced to cease operations, affecting small businesses and employment in the state
  • Federalism inconsistency: Kratom remains unscheduled at the federal level, creating potential conflicts between state and federal law

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

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