Connecticut Makes Kratom and 7-OH Schedule 1 Controlled Substances

Why it matters

Connecticut became the seventh state to classify kratom as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, imposing an immediate ban on sales and distribution and setting criminal penalties for violations.

The big picture

The trend of state-level kratom prohibition continues to accelerate. Connecticut joins Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Louisiana in scheduling kratom as Schedule 1. This contrasts with other states that have adopted the Kratom Consumer Protection Act model, which focuses on age restrictions and labeling rather than outright bans.

Key findings

• Connecticut's Legislative Regulation Review Committee unanimously approved the kratom scheduling regulations on February 24, 2026
• Final regulatory approval came on April 2, 2026; regulations are now in effect
• Both kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) are classified as Schedule 1 controlled substances in Connecticut
• Businesses were required to remove products from shelves and destroy or return them to wholesalers by March 25, 2026
• Connecticut is the seventh U.S. state to prohibit kratom as a controlled substance

What they say

"The regulations received final approval on April 2, 2026 and are now in effect," according to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Bottom line

Connecticut became the seventh state to ban kratom outright as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, effective April 2026.