Connecticut AG Sends Letters to All Kratom Distributors as Statewide Ban Takes Effect Today

Why it matters

Connecticut's kratom ban became enforceable today, making it illegal to possess, sell, or distribute kratom, 7-OH, and five other substances — and the state's top law enforcement officials are actively notifying distributors and threatening prosecution.

The big picture

Connecticut added kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) to its Schedule I controlled substance list in February 2026, joining six other states with similar bans. The March 25 enforcement date gives the kratom industry one of the most comprehensive state-level crackdowns to date, with the Attorney General, State Police, and consumer protection agency all acting in coordination.

Key findings

• Seven substances are now Schedule I in Connecticut: kratom, 7-OH, bromazolam, flubromazolam, nitazenes, tianeptine, and phenibut
• Attorney General William Tong mailed enforcement letters to all known kratom distributors and manufacturers
• Possession, manufacture, sale, or distribution of these substances is now illegal, not just retail sale
• Connecticut State Police Col. Daniel Loughman warned of arrest and prosecution for violations
• The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Resources (DMHAS) is providing addiction support resources for those in withdrawal
• Rep. Tracy Marra, a pharmacist, called on neighboring states and the federal government to follow Connecticut's lead

What they say

As of Wednesday, it will be illegal to possess, manufacture, sell or distribute these drugs, including Kratom and tianeptine, sometimes referred to as gas station heroin. These companies are on notice — if you sell in Connecticut, we will know, and we will hold you accountable. — Attorney General William Tong

Bottom line

Connecticut's multi-agency crackdown — combining retail enforcement, distributor notification letters, and criminal prosecution warnings — sets a new standard for state-level kratom prohibition.