Gov. announces kratom sale restrictions, public education efforts

Gov. Maura Healey on Aug. 13 announced new actions to protect Massachusetts residents from unregulated kratom products, including an emergency order restricting the sale of kratom and new public education efforts about health risks and connecting people with treatment and recovery services.

The order will effectively ban the sale and possession of kratom products across the state starting Aug. 28.

Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, the leaves of which contain active chemical compounds that act on the brain’s opioid receptors, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.

Kratom products are widely sold in smoke shops, convenience stores and gas stations in various forms, with claims that they boost energy, relieve pain, manage mood, or help with opioid withdrawal — but they have been largely unregulated. Products can vary significantly in their potency and ingredients, according to the administration, making it difficult for consumers to know what they are purchasing or the potential health risks. Regular kratom has been associated with a range of health effects and can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to opioid withdrawal.

“Customers should be able to trust that the products being sold in stores are safe,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a prepared statement. “We’re taking action to protect young people and residents, give communities the tools to get dangerous products off store shelves, and making sure anyone struggling with dependence can get the treatment and support they need.”

Massachusetts Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein has issued an emergency order temporarily placing all forms of kratom into Schedule I under Massachusetts law, making it unlawful to possess or sell without a Massachusetts Controlled Substances Registration. The order will take effect following a 14-day notice period and remain in effect for up to one year, giving local boards of health and other municipal officials additional authority to take enforcement action against retailers selling kratom products.

Under state law (Ch. 94C, Sec. 2A), municipalities will be authorized to take enforcement action against licensed commercial establishments that continue to sell kratom. Enforcement actions include, but are not limited to, cease-and-desist notices, citations, and suspension of municipal licenses or permits, including permits to operate, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

The DPH said it is providing information and guidance to local boards of health, health care providers and substance use treatment programs about the new restrictions, the health risks associated with kratom, and available treatment and recovery services.

The DPH will hold an informational webinar for local public health officials to support implementation of the order, and provides resources at mass.gov/kratom.

Treatment is available for people experiencing kratom withdrawal or dependence. Individuals seeking help for themselves or others can call or text “HOPE” to 800-327-5050 to reach the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.