Michigan House Passes Bill to Ban Kratom, Heads to State Senate

Why it matters

Michigan's kratom ban legislation would make it one of the most populous states to prohibit kratom, affecting residents who use it for pain management while creating new criminal penalties for sellers and distributors.

The big picture

Concern over kratom has intensified in Michigan following state data showing kratom was detected in nearly 995 of Michigan's 1,832 overdose deaths in 2024. HB 5537 was led by Rep. Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan) and passed the House with bipartisan support. Industry advocates and some patient groups oppose the bill, arguing it ignores kratom's use as a harm-reduction tool.

Key findings

• HB 5537 passed the Michigan House in March 2026 and now heads to the Michigan Senate
• The bill would prohibit growing, manufacturing, selling, or distributing kratom or synthetic variants
• Violations would be a misdemeanor carrying up to one year in jail or fines up to $1,000
• Kratom was detected in 995 of Michigan's 1,832 overdose deaths in 2024 according to state data
• If signed into law, Michigan would join seven other states in prohibiting kratom
• Products include kratom pills, powder, and liquid shots commonly sold at gas stations and smoke shops

What they say

"What we are experiencing with kratom is a crisis," said Rep. Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan). "These products are being marketed towards our kids, and many parents aren't even aware that it's happening."

Bottom line

Michigan's House passed HB 5537 in March 2026 to ban kratom outright; if signed into law, it would be among the most significant state-level kratom prohibitions due to Michigan's population.