New York lawmakers have approved a bill aimed specifically at banning synthetic kratom products, not the natural plant itself. The legislation focuses on substances containing 7-hydroxymitragynine, a lab-altered compound that significantly increases potency and has raised concerns about addiction and safety.
If signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul, New York would become the eighth state to prohibit these synthetic variants. Lawmakers cited cases of dependency and overdose linked to the enhanced products, which are commonly sold in convenience stores and gas stations.
Natural kratom, derived from a Southeast Asian plant, remains legal under this measure. The bill builds on earlier regulations requiring clearer labeling of kratom products. More details are available via the original report from Newsday.
