The California Department of Public Health has unilaterally declared kratom illegal - without a vote, without a new law, and without public input. Retailers are already being told to pull products off shelves in Los Angeles, Santa Clara and Sacramento counties, where enforcement has already begun. This overreach has sent shockwaves through our community of kratom and 7-OH users, advocates, and small businesses.

This is not how public health decisions should be made.

Kratom, a natural plant used safely for centuries in Southeast Asia, has helped millions manage pain, anxiety, and safely transition away from other harmful substances. There are an estimated 2 million kratom consumers in California, and yet not a single public hearing, safety review, or stakeholder meeting was held before this sweeping action by the health department.

Instead, California appears to be following the same flawed, fear-based “science” coming out of the FDA under RFK, Jr. and unilaterally taking away these products from people who need them. California has always been a state that leads the way in medical freedom — from cannabis reform to harm reduction and patient rights. So why are we suddenly following Washington DC's political agenda instead of California values?

The CA Department of Public Health should be following science and compassion. Researchers from across the spectrum have found no sufficient evidence to support scheduling or prohibition. Responsible regulation, not fear-based enforcement actions, is how we protect consumers and ensure safe products.

We call on the California Department of Public Health and regulators to:
 ✅ Halt enforcement actions immediately
 ✅ Engage with scientists, healthcare providers, and community members to establish safety standards
 ✅ Support harm reduction, not prohibition, by implementing age limits, product testing, and labeling standards

This isn’t just about kratom - it’s about protecting personal freedom, access to safer alternatives, and the right to choose your own path to wellness.

Sign this petition to demand the CA Department of Public Health reverse this reckless decision and bring science, transparency, and fairness back into public policy.

Remember #weareallkratom