A measure to regulate kratom products in Massachusetts moved forward today, the same day it was filed, after being reported favorably by the House Judiciary Committee.
Kratom plant.
The legislation, House Bill 4394, has been sent to the House Ways and Means Committee. The p
roposed law establishes rules for the sale and labeling of kratom, a plant-derived substance used both recreational and for medical purposes.
Specifically, the measure would require retailers to provide clear labeling on all kratom products, including manufacturer details, ingredient lists, and recommended serving sizes. It also sets restrictions banning the sale of products that are adulterated, contaminated with harmful substances, or containing synthetic alkaloids. In addition, products with more than 2% 7-hydroxymitragynine in their alkaloid composition would be prohibited.
The bill limits kratom sales to adults 21 and older. Retailers who sell to underage customers would face escalating fines, starting at $1,000 for a first offense and reaching $5,000 for repeated violations. Other violations, such as improper labeling or distribution of unsafe products, would carry administrative fines of up to $1,000.
If enacted, the law would take effect 180 days after passage. The state Department of Public Health would be tasked with drafting rules to oversee labeling, testing, and enforcement.
