New York is on the verge of setting a national example in harm reduction as lawmakers urge Governor Kathy Hochul to sign two recently passed bills increasing oversight of kratom and its compound, 7-OH. The legislation, approved by the state Legislature last month, introduces age restrictions and bans misleading labels, aiming to protect consumers while maintaining access for those managing chronic pain or recovering from addiction.
Advocates argue that these measures will target unscrupulous sellers without penalizing responsible users, many of whom rely on kratom as a safer alternative to opioids. With over 3,000 opioid overdose deaths in New York in 2023 alone, supporters stress the urgent need for regulated, non-opioid pain relief options, especially for underserved populations.
The bills would treat kratom and 7-OH as regulated consumer goods rather than prohibited substances—a move seen as overdue progress. As research continues into the safety and efficacy of these plant-based products, New York’s approach could become a model for other states seeking to balance safety and access in the fight against opioid addiction.
Read the full opinion at Times Union.
