The proposed Schedule 1 listing of kratom in Virginia represents an unwarranted overreach that is not substantiated by data. Numerous studies and expert opinions highlight that kratom, a natural botanical, does not exhibit the high potential for abuse or lack of accepted medical use that Schedule 1 classification necessitates. Instead, kratom has been shown to offer therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and assistance with opioid withdrawal, without the severe side effects associated with many pharmaceuticals. Criminalizing kratom would not only hinder scientific research but also deprive individuals of a valuable alternative to more dangerous substances. It is imperative that legislative decisions be grounded in robust scientific evidence rather than unfounded fears.