Kratom legislation has been introduced in seven states so far in 2025.
Kratom has been used for thousands of years, beginning in Southeast Asia, where it has been valued for its medicinal properties. The leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant are often consumed as tea or in powdered form, providing effects that range from mild stimulation to pain relief. Proponents argue it can help manage chronic pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal symptoms.
However, kratom remains controversial, with some states implementing bans due to safety concerns. Currently, it is prohibited in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Meanwhile, six states have filed kratom-related bills in 2025, reflecting the ongoing debate over its use and regulation.
Below is a look at the seven state with kratom bills filed already this session.
Connecticut: House Bill 5427
Connecticut House Bill 5427, introduced on January 17 by a bipartisan trio of lawmakers, seeks to prohibit the sale of kratom to individuals under 21 years of age. The bill emphasizes the need to restrict access to younger consumers, citing potential risks associated with misuse.
Nebraska: Legislative Bill 431
In Nebraska, State Senator Loren Lippincott filed Legislative Bill 431, which proposes classifying kratom as an illegal controlled substance. If passed, the measure would criminalize all kratom-related activities under the state’s Controlled Substances Act, effectively banning its use, sale, and distribution.
Hawaii: Senate Bill 463
Hawaii Senate Bill 463, filed by Senator Ronald Kouchi on January 16, introduces significant regulatory measures. The bill mandates kratom products be registered with the Department of Health and comply with strict labeling and safety requirements. Products must avoid adulteration, synthetic enhancements, and unsafe combinations with other compounds. Additionally, the bill requires detailed labeling to include warnings about potential risks, a recommendation to consult healthcare professionals before use, and explicit ingredient information.
New York: Assembly Bill 2340
New York Assembly Bill 2340, filed on January 16, seeks to prohibit the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of 21. Violators would face a civil penalty of up to $500 for selling or providing kratom to underage individuals, underscoring the state’s focus on safeguarding young residents.
South Dakota: House Bill 1056
In South Dakota, House Bill 1056 was introduced on January 16 by eight Republican lawmakers. The bill proposes prohibiting the preparation, sale, and distribution of certain kratom products and includes penalties for violations. The proposed restrictions reflect concerns about the safety and unregulated nature of some kratom products.
Missouri: House Bill 504
Missouri Representative Brad Christ filed House Bill 504 on December 10, aiming to enact the “Kratom Consumer Protection Act.” The legislation would establish guidelines for the preparation, sale, and distribution of kratom, including requirements for labeling, product safety, and restrictions on synthetic compounds. The bill also preempts local regulations, ensuring a unified state policy on kratom. Violations of these requirements could result in penalties, and the bill provides legal recourse for individuals harmed by non-compliant products.
A Complex Landscape
The flurry of legislative activity reflects a divided approach to kratom in the United States. While some states pursue outright bans, others focus on regulating its sale and use to ensure safety and transparency. As these bills progress, the ongoing debate over kratom’s benefits and risks continues to shape its future in the U.S.
Illinois: House Bill 1303
Filed on January 13 by Representative Curtis Tarver, Illinois House Bill 1303 establishes the “Kratom Consumer Protection Act.” The bill prohibits selling kratom to individuals under 21 and bans products with unsafe chemical compositions, synthetic alkaloids, or child-targeted marketing. A 5% retail tax on kratom is included, with quarterly returns required. Violations result in fines up to $20,000 and potential sales bans for repeat offenders. The bill also repeals the Kratom Control Act, introducing stricter regulations and statewide uniformity.
