DeWine looks to ban sale of kratom ahead of Toledo City Council vote that would do just that

Key Takeaways:

• Governor Mike DeWine seeks a statewide ban on kratom
• The proposal targets both natural and synthetic kratom forms
• The Ohio Board of Pharmacy is being asked to classify the substance as illegal
• Toledo City Council is considering its own kratom ban
• The report originates from The Blade | Toledo’s on August 25, 2025

Introduction

COLUMBUS — The ongoing debate over kratom—a plant-derived product sold in various forms—has reached new heights in Ohio. Governor Mike DeWine is urging the Ohio Board of Pharmacy to categorize kratom, both natural and synthetic, as an illegal drug. At the same time, Toledo City Council is preparing to take its own action, moving forward with a local ban that, if passed, would mirror the governor’s larger ambitions.

The Governor’s Call to Ban

Governor DeWine’s request comes amid growing discussions about the legal status of kratom in various parts of the country. According to the governor’s statement, “Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is calling on the Ohio Board of Pharmacy to designate all natural and synthetic kratom compounds as illegal drugs.” This step would place the substance under tighter restrictions, possibly curtailing its sale and distribution statewide.

Toledo’s Pending Vote

While the state-level process unfolds, Toledo City Council is set to vote on a measure that could prohibit kratom sales within city limits. The article’s title, “DeWine looks to ban sale of kratom ahead of Toledo City Council vote that would do just that,” underscores the parallel paths being pursued by state and local authorities. Should the council pass the measure, Toledo may become one of the first cities in Ohio to enforce a ban on the substance.

Potential Consequences

The push to outlaw kratom could have far-reaching effects for both local businesses and consumers. If the Ohio Board of Pharmacy follows through on the governor’s request, their decision would create a consistent approach across the state. It also raises questions about how similar initiatives might influence other municipalities beyond Toledo as well as the broader conversation surrounding kratom’s use and regulation.

Looking Ahead

As the situation evolves, all eyes remain on the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and Toledo City Council. Their respective votes and actions will determine whether kratom remains available or becomes illegal to purchase and sell within the state and in the city of Toledo. The outcome offers an important case study for other communities wrestling with the question of regulating kratom and its derivatives.