Massachusetts Issues Emergency Order Banning All Kratom Sales Statewide

Why it matters

Massachusetts becomes the latest — and one of the largest — states to restrict kratom sales, signaling a major escalation in state-level prohibition that could influence other large states. The emergency order takes effect after 14 days and lasts up to one year, giving municipalities authority to enforce it.

The big picture

With eight states now banning kratom outright, and the DEA having temporarily placed 7-hydroxymitragynine in Schedule I in August 2026, state-level action is accelerating. Massachusetts follows California, Tennessee, Kansas, Connecticut, and Vermont in cracking down. The Healey administration cites the unregulated nature of kratom products — sold at gas stations with no age restrictions — as the core public health concern.

Key findings

• Governor Maura Healey announced an emergency order on August 13, 2026 placing all forms of kratom in Schedule I under Massachusetts law
• The order takes effect after a 14-day notice period and remains in effect for up to one year
• DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein cited overdose risk, physical dependence, seizures, hallucinations, and psychosis as key health concerns
• The ban applies to all forms: powders, tablets, capsules, gummies, and dissolvable strips
• Local boards of health gain new enforcement authority against retailers under the order
• Naloxone is recommended for overdose response; treatment resources are available via the MA Substance Use Helpline at 800-327-5050

What they say

"Dangerous kratom products are being sold in stores across Massachusetts with little oversight, and people — including children — often have no way of knowing what they're buying or how potent it is," said Governor Maura Healey. DPH Commissioner Goldstein added: "Kratom is increasingly being used by youth and adults, and many are unaware of the risks, including overdose, dependence, and serious health consequences."

Bottom line

Massachusetts enacted a statewide emergency kratom ban on August 13, 2026 — one of the largest states to do so — underscoring how rapidly prohibition is spreading as public health officials grow alarmed by unregulated potency and rising addiction cases.