A bipartisan group of six North Carolina lawmakers introduced House Bill 468 yesterday, a comprehensive measure that would regulate the sale, distribution, manufacturing, and labeling of kratom products throughout the state.
Filed by Representative Jeff McNeely, the bill establishes a comprehensive licensing and regulatory framework for kratom, an herbal substance derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, commonly used for pain relief, mood enhancement, energy, and as a natural alternative to opioids. Under the proposal, no kratom product could be sold to anyone under 21, and all products would be required to meet strict testing and packaging standards.
The Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Division would oversee enforcement, licensing, and compliance. Licenses would be required for all kratom manufacturers, distributors, and retail sellers, including online vendors. License fees range from $250 for retail sellers to $15,000 for manufacturers, with reduced fees available for small businesses. All licenses would be valid for one year and subject to renewal.
Manufacturers and distributors would need to conduct lab testing through independent, accredited laboratories before releasing products into the market. The bill bans kratom products that are adulterated, contain synthetic alkaloids, or exceed allowable levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine. Products would also need child-resistant packaging and warning labels advising of potential health risks and legal disclaimers.
Retailers found violating the law could face fines of up to $2,000 and license revocation for repeated offenses. Civil and criminal penalties are also outlined for underage possession, false advertising, illegal manufacturing, and non-compliance with testing or packaging requirements.
The legislation would take effect July 1, 2026. If passed, North Carolina would join a growing list of states implementing kratom-specific regulatory frameworks rather than pursuing outright bans.
