Mississippi House Bill HB1750

Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/26
• Refer: 1/19/26
• Failed: 2/3/26

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly impact the legal status of kratom in Mississippi, leading to stricter oversight regarding its sale and distribution. Entities involved with kratom, such as retailers, manufacturers, and consumers, will need to comply with new regulations surrounding its handling, which could include obtaining licenses to sell and demonstrating compliance with safety standards. This change is expected to address growing concerns about the safety and addiction potential of kratom, as advocates for the ban argue that its use can lead to various health issues.

Summary

House Bill 1750 seeks to amend Section 41-29-117 of the Mississippi Code to include kratom as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. The primary goal of this legislation is to regulate the sale and possession of kratom, thereby tightening control over substances deemed to pose significant health risks. The addition of kratom to Schedule III implies that it will now be regulated similarly to other controlled substances, which places restrictions on its availability and use for individuals.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HB1750, particularly regarding public health versus personal choice. Proponents of the bill assert that including kratom in the controlled substances list is necessary to protect citizens from potential harm, as evidence suggests risks associated with kratom use, such as dependency and adverse health effects. Conversely, opponents argue that this move may infringe on personal liberties and limit access to a substance that many users claim provides therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief and anxiety reduction. Discussions around the bill highlight the ongoing debate over regulation versus autonomy in personal health choices.