7-HOPE Alliance Applauds 7-OH Comment Extension, Calls on HHS and DEA to Reconsider and Review Emerging Science

LOS ANGELES, CA, September 3, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- 7-HOPE Alliance, a consumer protection non-profit dedicated to science and public education on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and kratom, today applauded the federal government’s 15-day extension of the public comment period while urging the regulators to reconsider altogether the proposed scheduling process, fully evaluate emerging science, scrutinize the underlying adverse-event data, and allow Congress time to consider a responsible regulatory framework before any Schedule I action moves forward.

The call comes as the September 10 deadline approaches for public comments on HHS’ Request for Information regarding the proposed temporary scheduling of 7-OH. HHS recently extended the comment period by 15 days following an extraordinary level of public participation, with more than 30,000 comments submitted to the federal docket and more than 65,000 people signing a Change.org petition in support of continued access to 7-OH.

For 7-HOPE Alliance, the extension was an important victory and evidence that sustained public engagement can make a difference. It also created something even more valuable: additional time for policymakers to hear from consumers, review emerging scientific evidence, and reconsider whether an accelerated Schedule I process is the appropriate response.

7-HOPE Alliance has been clear with federal regulators that claims that 7-OH presents an imminent threat are not consistent with the evidence. The temporary scheduling process is intended for circumstances involving that kind of immediate danger, yet the available data on 7-OH remains limited and does not establish the level of imminent public-health threat that would justify rushing toward Schedule I. At the same time, hundreds of thousands of Americans report relying on 7-OH and could face significant consequences if access is abruptly eliminated.

Emerging scientific research, including new data expected to be published in the near future, is beginning to provide a more complete picture of 7-OH’s safety profile and raises important questions about some of the assumptions underlying the proposed action. 7-HOPE Alliance urges HHS to reconsider the emergency scheduling, evaluate both the existing and emerging science, and carefully examine the full picture of any reported adverse events. 

Additionally, 7-HOPE believes that Congress should also have an opportunity to fully engage in this debate and consider whether a responsible regulatory framework can address legitimate public-health concerns while preserving access for adults. A decision with consequences this significant should allow the legislative process to play out and be based on the full scientific record, not an incomplete picture of the risks or a rush to judgment.

“This extension showed that thousands of Americans are paying attention and are deeply concerned about what Schedule I could mean for them and their families,” said Jackie Subeck, Executive Director of 7-HOPE Alliance. “The government now has an opportunity to listen to those voices, look carefully at the emerging science, and ask whether the evidence actually supports an emergency response. We believe the responsible course is to reconsider this rushed action, let the science develop, and allow policymakers to have the broader conversation this issue deserves.”

“We are not arguing against regulation. We have consistently supported responsible standards around manufacturing, testing, labeling, age restrictions, and consumer protection. But regulation and prohibition are not the same thing, and Schedule I should not become a substitute for the harder work of building thoughtful policy,” added Subeck.

7-HOPE Alliance has continued its nationwide advocacy campaign throughout the extended comment period, mobilizing consumers, advocates and stakeholders to submit comments, contact federal officials, and educate members of Congress about the potential consequences of scheduling 7-OH. With the September 10 deadline approaching, the organization is urging supporters to use the remaining days to strengthen the public record and make clear that science-based regulation, rather than prohibition, offers a more responsible path forward.

Advocates can learn how to submit comments, contact federal officials, and participate in the campaign at www.7hopealliance.org/federal.

About 7-HOPE Alliance

7-HOPE Alliance (7-Hydroxy Outreach for Public Education) is a non-profit consumer protection organization (501(c)(3)) 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 harm reduction tool. For more information or to get involved, visit 7hopealliance.org.

Disclaimer

7-HOPE Alliance is an independent 501(c)(3) advocacy organization. The statements in this press release are intended strictly for educational, informational, and civic advocacy purposes regarding public administrative processes (HHS/DEA dockets). 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and kratom products have not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Nothing in this release should be construed as medical or legal advice, nor as an endorsement or encouragement of illegal substance use. Regulatory frameworks, state laws, and scheduling statuses regarding 7-OH and kratom are subject to rapid legislative and administrative change. Individuals should consult qualified legal and healthcare professionals regarding local laws and medical decisions.

Media Contact

media@7hopealliance.org