Johnson County offers resources ahead of July 1 kratom and 7-OH ban

Beginning July 1, changes to Kansas law will make it illegal to possess, sell or purchase certain substances, including kratom (mitragynine) and 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine). Residents and retailers who possess kratom or 7-OH should safely dispose of them before July 1. These products are sold in forms such as capsules, powders, tablets, extracts and liquids.

Products may be dropped off at the Johnson County Sheriff's Office prescription drug collection box, located in the Sheriff's Operations Center lobby (27747 W 159th St. New Century) during business hours, or at other medication disposal locations throughout the county. Residents may also check with their local police department for additional disposal options. Collection boxes do not accept liquids, needles, inhalers or aerosols.

"If you have kratom or 7-OH, now is the time to get rid of it," Sheriff Byron Roberson said. "Dispose of these products on or before June 30, no questions asked. Starting July 1, possession of these substances is illegal under K.S.A 65-4105."

As the law takes effect, the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment encourages residents who use kratom or 7-OH products to be aware of withdrawal symptoms. Recent data show Johnson County has among the highest rates of non-fatal EMS encounters involving kratom and related substances in Kansas, making this an important local public health issue. Individuals who use these products regularly may experience symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, restlessness, muscle aches, nausea or difficulty sleeping when they stop using them.

Symptoms of withdrawal can lead to seeking alternatives, including the use of other opioids or pain medications without a prescription. Taking pills obtained outside of a licensed pharmacy significantly increases the risk of exposure to fake pills containing fentanyl, overdose and death. More information on the dangers of fake pills and fentanyl is available from the Johnson County Prevention and Recovery Coalition at youneverknowjoco.org.

While dependence and withdrawal can happen, treatment is available and recovery is possible. Johnson County Mental Health Center encourages anyone who is struggling themselves or supporting a loved one with a substance use challenge related to kratom and 7-OH products to call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support. 988 is free, confidential and available 24/7, and calls in Johnson County are answered by Johnson County Mental Health Center.

Changes to the Kansas Controlled Substances Act effective July 1, 2026, affect a number of products and substances. The new law also adds HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) as a controlled substance and clarifies that all THC is illegal, regardless of the THC concentration, if it is in a prohibited product type.

In the months leading up to the law's effective date, the Johnson County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies throughout the county have conducted outreach efforts to educate local retailers about the upcoming change. As part of those efforts, District Attorney Steve Howe provided a letter to businesses outlining that after July 1, no store should be selling any items that contain kratom, 7-OH, HHC or THC in any of the unlawful forms listed under KSA 2-3908 whether or not the level is below .3%.

Residents and retailers should review Kansas House Bill 2365 and Kansas Senate Bill 430 to determine whether any products in their possession are impacted by the law.