Senate Health Committee signals caution and calls for more information on 7-OH

LOS ANGELES, CA, February 24, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Today, 7-HOPE Alliance said that last week’s California Senate Health Committee hearing was a major step forward in the public conversation surrounding 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and kratom.

While no vote was taken, lawmakers engaged directly with scientific findings, consumer data, and personal testimony, noting that the issue warrants serious examination and additional information. 7-HOPE Alliance and advocates applauded this meaningful move toward responsible, evidence-based policymaking.

“We are incredibly grateful that lawmakers chose to pause and listen,” said Jackie Subeck, executive director of 7-HOPE Alliance. “We showed up to ensure that decisions made in Sacramento are grounded in science, data, and real consumer experience — not fear. We have consistently supported reasonable regulation, and we are ready to work with policymakers to get this right.”

During the hearing, committee member Senator Anna Caballero noted that this was the second time she had heard testimony on the issue, previously in the Public Safety Committee which reached a similar conclusion. She remarked that with both hearings she came away with “more questions than answers.” The committee Chair also requested additional information from 7-HOPE Chief Science Advisor Dr. Michele Ross, reinforcing that the issue warrants careful review rather than immediate action. 7-HOPE Alliance is happy to see that lawmakers are approaching the issue with caution and openness instead of rushing toward prohibition and criminalization.

Another expert who presented, Dr. Igor Koturbash, M.D., Ph.D,  acknowledged having reservations about 7-OH but stated that he did not believe the compound should be criminalized. 7-HOPE Alliance believes that distinction is significant. Even cautious voices recognized that criminal penalties are not supported by the available evidence.

Lawmakers also heard from consumers who shared deeply personal stories about how 7-OH and kratom have impacted their lives. One particularly powerful moment came when James C. testified that after years of IV heroin use and unsuccessful attempts to transition off opioids through methadone and suboxone, 7-OH provided him with a sustainable alternative. He described it as a “viable option to turn to” instead of returning to prescription opioids or illicit drugs. His testimony underscored the stakes of the discussion and the importance of evaluating potential harm reduction tools carefully before considering bans.

While legislation to place 7OH on Schedule 1, SB 768 (Umberg), was defeated last month, AB 1088 (Bains), to put a 2% mg cap as a defacto ban on 7-OH, is an active two year bill which raises significant concerns among consumers, researchers, and harm reduction advocates who argue that any type of ban could push products into unregulated markets and remove a potential alternative for those seeking to move away from more dangerous substances.

“We asked for thoughtful conversation grounded in science and lived experience,” Subeck said. “That conversation truly began in this hearing. We are grateful to the Senate Health Committee for listening.”

7-HOPE Alliance continues to support reasonable regulation, including age restrictions including at point of sale, strong manufacturing standards, labeling transparency, third-party testing, and clear milligram-based serving limits, and will keep working in California and across the country to advance science-driven policy, support rigorous research, and ensure that consumer voices remain part of the public health conversation.

About 7-HOPE Alliance

7-HOPE Alliance Foundation (7-Hydroxy Outreach for Public Education) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public education, user support, and policy advocacy around 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a naturally occurring alkaloid in the kratom plant. Through a foundation of science, storytelling, and community, 7-HOPE empowers individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers with accurate, balanced information on 7-OH and its role in harm reduction, natural wellness, and safe, legal access to alternatives. The organization’s mission centers on four pillars: science, education, advocacy, and user support. By confronting misinformation, promoting responsible use, and providing uplifting real-life testimonials, 7-HOPE aims to ensure 7-OH remains available to the many individuals who find it to be a safe and effective alternative to dangerous painkillers and illegal drugs. For more information or to get involved, visit 7hopealliance.org.

Media Contact

7-HOPE Alliance
media@7hopealliance.org

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