April 2nd, 2026 Local News
Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - State Sen. Mike Henderson, R-Desloge, is continuing to lead an effort in the Missouri Senate to regulate kratom-derived products and keep what he describes as dangerous, unregulated substances away from children and vulnerable adults.
Henderson says Senate Bill 1605 is intended to establish clear rules for products containing kratom while also banning highly potent synthetic compounds such as 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly known as 7-OH.
According to Henderson, the legislation is focused on protecting Missourians from products that are often sold without clear safety standards, labeling requirements or meaningful oversight.
Senate Bill 1605 would regulate kratom products sold in Missouri and prohibit possession of highly concentrated synthetic compounds like 7-OH, which officials say has been linked to serious health risks.
Health experts have raised concerns about 7-OH because it is being sold in forms such as gummies, candies and liquid shots, often marketed in ways that may appear harmless or appealing to younger consumers. Officials say the substance is an opioid-like derivative of kratom and can be extremely potent.
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Chief Medical Officer Dr. Heidi Miller says 7-OH has been associated with serious health harms, including hospitalizations and deaths.
The Missouri Poison Center is also reporting an increase in exposures. So far in 2025, the center says it has received 47 reports involving kratom or 7-OH, nearly double the number reported in 2024. Three of those cases involved isolated 7-OH exposure, with at least one case requiring hospital evaluation.
Reported symptoms of 7-OH exposure can include nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal distress, along with anxiety, agitation, confusion and insomnia. Additional symptoms may include rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, breathing trouble, seizures, unconsciousness and withdrawal symptoms. Officials also warn the risk of overdose increases when the substance is combined with alcohol or other sedatives.
The renewed push for regulation comes as Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced a lawsuit Tuesday against CBD American Shaman and related companies. The lawsuit alleges the company failed to comply with required product testing while selling products in smoke shops and gas stations across Missouri. It also claims the company failed to disclose risks associated with the products.
Supporters of Senate Bill 1605 say the legislation is needed to close gaps in oversight and prevent dangerous compounds from being sold in places where children and vulnerable adults can easily access them.
If passed, the bill would create a stronger regulatory framework for kratom products in Missouri while specifically targeting the sale and possession of highly potent synthetic derivatives like 7-OH.