Saratoga County on Tuesday became the latest municipality in New York to prohibit the sale and distribution of kratom products.
The local law bans the commercial sale and distribution of kratom products, including natural, synthetic, semi-synthetic, chemically altered and lawful natural kratom leaf products. The measure makes an exception for products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Just a small amount of kratom can act like a stimulant. But too much of the product can act like an opioid and can turn deadly.
“We have seen the devastating impacts of kratom, which have tragically included local deaths, and we have heard from many of our county residents who support this measure,” said Phil Barrett, chair of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors. “Clearly, more clinical research and ingredient labeling standards on kratom products are necessary to better inform people about the use of this product.”
The law carries a $1,000 fine for a first-time offender. Repeat violations may result in an additional fine and jail time.