Comment on FR Doc # 2026-14286
Angela PerryOpposeIndividual
Summary: Angela Perry opposes the temporary placement of 7-hydroxymitragynine into Schedule I, arguing that a ban will harm vulnerable populations and fuel black markets. She advocates for strict manufacturing regulations and third-party testing instead of prohibition, highlighting the importance of kratom for veterans and chronic pain patients.
To Whom It May Concern:I am writing to express my strong opposition to the temporary placement of 7-hydroxymitragynine into Schedule I. A blanket ban is a counterproductive measure that will actively harm vulnerable populations. Instead, I urge the DEA and HHS to implement strict, age-gated manufacturing regulations.1. Regulation Protects Consumers; Banning Empowers the Black MarketProduct Safety: A Schedule I ban stops scientific research and removes safe, labeled products from store shelves.Consumer Protection: The solution to public safety concerns is strict regulation—such as the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA)—to mandate third-party testing, eliminate contaminants, and enforce age limits.Illicit Market Risk: Criminalizing this compound will not eliminate demand; it will simply force consumers into an unregulated, dangerous underground market.2. Preserving Personal Freedom and Consumer AutonomyRight to Choose: Responsible adults must retain the right to choose natural, plant-based wellness alternatives for their own bodies.Government Overreach: Over-regulating or banning accessible botanicals infringes on personal liberty and removes safe options for self-care.3. A Lifeline for Veterans and Abandoned Chronic Pain PatientsThe Healthcare Gap: Strict opioid prescribing guidelines have left millions of chronic pain patients and injured military veterans abandoned by the traditional healthcare system.Harm Reduction: For many veterans dealing with physical injuries and PTSD, kratom is a crucial, non-lethal tool for harm reduction that helps them avoid dangerous, illicit street drugs or heavy prescription narcotics.Devastating Consequences: Forcing these individuals off a functional, accessible alternative will inevitably lead to a severe spike in untreated pain, mental health crises, and accidental overdose deaths.ConclusionPlease reject this temporary scheduling order. Do not criminalize the veterans and pain patients who rely on these products to maintain their quality of life. Choose sensible, rigorous regulation over a destructive and failed prohibition model.Sincerely, Angela Perry Michigan