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A 2340

Prohibits the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of twenty-one

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ken Blankenbush and 25 co-sponsors

New York bill prohibits kratom sales to those under 21, establishing age restrictions on the plant-based substance to limit youth access.

SUBSTITUTED BY S4552A
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Bill Summary · A 2340

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 2340 prohibits the sale of kratom—a plant-based substance with psychoactive properties—to individuals under 21 years old in New York State. The bill treats kratom similarly to age-restricted products like tobacco and alcohol, establishing a minimum purchase age requirement for retail sales.

Why is this important

Kratom has grown increasingly popular in the U.S. market, particularly among younger users seeking its stimulant or opioid-like effects, yet it remains largely unregulated at the federal level. This bill addresses concerns about youth access to a substance with potential health and dependency risks while raising questions about state-level regulatory approaches to emerging plant-based products.

Potential points of contention

  • Kratom's health profile uncertainty: Limited FDA research exists on kratom's long-term effects, addiction potential, and safety; some argue restrictions are premature without more evidence, while others cite documented cases of dependence and adverse effects
  • Regulatory precedent and consistency: The bill creates New York-specific kratom rules that may conflict with federal inaction and differ from other states, creating complexity for retailers operating across state lines
  • Enforcement and market burden: Retailers must verify age at purchase, adding compliance costs and operational complexity similar to tobacco sales, while the black market for age-restricted substances may flourish if demand among youth remains high

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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