Lawmaker cites medical examiner figures on deaths involving concentrated compounds sold in convenience stores and other retail outlets
OKLAHOMA CITY — An Oklahoma lawmaker says he plans to seek a ban on several potent kratom-derived products after state medical examiner figures showed dozens of deaths involving the substances this year.
Rep. Tim Turner, R-Kinta, said Friday he intends to introduce legislation placing several concentrated or synthetically enhanced kratom compounds on Oklahoma’s list of Schedule I controlled substances. The proposal has not yet been filed.
Turner said he is particularly concerned that the products are readily available in convenience stores and other retail locations.
“Our youth are more important than a dollar,” Turner said. “There is no amount of tax revenue, retail sales or industry profit that is worth the life of an Oklahoma child.”
Turner said medical examiner figures show 38 deaths from January through June involving one of the compounds alone, and 73 involving one of the compounds along with another intoxicating substance.
The medical examiner’s office has reported an increase in deaths involving the compounds since the second half of 2025 and says they can produce opioid-like effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression and death.
Turner’s proposal would target products containing concentrated or enhanced levels of compounds including 7-OH. The FDA has separately warned about concentrated 7-OH products while distinguishing them from natural kratom leaf.
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics Director Donnie Anderson said current state law does not give his agency authority to investigate and shut down suppliers because the substances are not listed as controlled dangerous substances.
“Synthetically enhanced Kratom products are contributing to an alarming rise in overdoses and deaths in our state,” Anderson said.
Turner, a former sheriff and narcotics officer, said he is working with law enforcement officials and prosecutors on the legislation. He also wants lawmakers to consider ways to hold manufacturers and distributors accountable when their products are tied to deaths or serious injuries.
The Legislature meets for its organizational day Jan. 5. The deadline to introduce bills is Jan. 14, and the regular session begins Feb. 1.
