Texas has not passed a statewide kratom ban. Kratom – an unregulated opioid – remains legally sold in gas stations, vape shops, and online. The next legislative session is the opportunity to act. Build the coalition now for a complete Schedule I ban.
Texas has not yet enacted a statewide kratom ban. That means kratom products – powders, capsules, extracts, shots – remain legally available in gas stations, vape shops, and online retailers across the state. Meanwhile, the FDA warns that kratom has no approved medical use and is not safe as a dietary supplement. Other states have seen hospitalizations, poisonings, and deaths rise sharply. States that have passed full bans have seen measurable reductions in poison center calls and severe outcomes.
Your job right now: Build a coalition. Document retail sales. Educate lawmakers. Recruit medical, pharmacy, and law enforcement voices. The next session starts long before the first hearing is gaveled.
Below are key Texas groups that can influence future kratom policy. For each category, we explain why they matter and what to ask when you reach out. Use the contact links to start the conversation.
Why they matter: No field test means any law short of a full ban is nearly impossible to enforce. Law enforcement can explain to legislators why a full ban is the only workable solution.
What to ask: "Will you support a full ban on all kratom products? Can you testify that the absence of a field test makes any regulatory approach unenforceable?"
Why they matter: The Department of State Health Services and the Poison Center Network track substance use, poisoning data, and treatment needs. Their analysis can quantify the burden of kratom and justify a ban.
What to ask: "Will you collect and publish data on kratom-related emergency visits and poisonings? Will you support a full ban?"
Why they matter: Pharmacists, the Board of Pharmacy, and pharmacy schools have direct knowledge of product safety, contamination risks, and the limitations of self‑regulation. They can advocate for a complete ban.
What to ask: "Will your organization issue a public statement supporting a full statewide ban on kratom? Will you provide data on adverse events or poisoning calls?"
Why they matter: Physicians, pediatricians, nurses, and hospitals see kratom's harms firsthand. Their public statements carry significant weight with legislators.
What to ask: "Will your organization issue a public statement supporting a full statewide ban on kratom? Will you share data on kratom-related ER visits or poisonings?"
Why they matter: These providers see the real‑world consequences of kratom dependence – withdrawal, failed treatment attempts, and relapse. Their testimony can illustrate the addictive nature of kratom.
What to ask: "Will you support a full ban and provide testimony or written comments about the burden of kratom addiction on your programs?"
While no bill is active now, you can still reach out to state representatives and senators to plant the seed for a full ban. Use the template below to educate them about the dangers and the need for prohibition.
Texas has no statewide kratom ban – but that can change. The next session is the next opportunity.
Are you a healthcare professional, parent, educator, addiction specialist, law enforcement officer, or community advocate in Texas? Help build the coalition for a full ban.