Massachusetts Places All Kratom Products Under Emergency Schedule I Order

Why it matters

Massachusetts becomes one of the first states to classify all forms of kratom, not just concentrated derivatives, as a controlled substance, giving local officials new enforcement power over retailers statewide.

The big picture

The order follows growing concern about kratom's availability in smoke shops, gas stations, and convenience stores in forms ranging from powders to gummies and dissolvable strips, and it precedes the DEA's later August 2026 federal scheduling of specific concentrated derivatives.

Key findings

• DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein issued an emergency order placing all forms of kratom into Massachusetts Schedule I, effective after a 14-day notice period and lasting up to one year.
• The order applies to natural kratom as well as more concentrated or laboratory-modified derivatives.
• Kratom use has been linked to seizures, hallucinations, psychosis, and physical dependence with opioid-like withdrawal symptoms, according to DPH.
• The state is directing residents to naloxone, available without a prescription, for suspected overdoses involving kratom.
• DPH launched new public resources at mass.gov/kratom and will hold an informational webinar for local boards of health on enforcement.

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," Gov. Maura Healey said.

Bottom line

**Massachusetts became one of the first states to schedule all forms of kratom, not just its concentrated derivatives, as a controlled substance.**