Minnesota Gov. Walz Signs Kratom Age-21 Law; Penalties Increase for Underage Sales

Why it matters

Minnesota now requires buyers to be 21 or older to legally possess or purchase kratom, and imposes criminal penalties on sellers who violate the rule. The law takes effect August 1, 2026, making Minnesota one of the strictest regulated states short of an outright ban.

The big picture

A wave of state-level kratom legislation swept the country in 2026, ranging from full bans (Kentucky, Tennessee) to age-restriction and consumer protection frameworks. Minnesota previously allowed 18-year-olds to buy kratom. Advocates for stricter rules have pointed to rising 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) addiction and poison center calls as justification for raising the age threshold.

Key findings

• HF 3453 was signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz, sponsored by Rep. Jessica Hanson (DFL-Burnsville)
• The legal age to purchase or possess kratom rises from 18 to 21, effective August 1, 2026
• Selling kratom to anyone under 21 is now a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law
• Possessing kratom while under 21 is a misdemeanor
• Prior to this law, local governments had individually enacted stricter ordinances, now the state provides a uniform baseline

What they say

The bill sponsor and lawmakers cited concerns about harmful side effects of kratom products, particularly unregulated drinks and pills, and addiction issues linked to synthetic 7-OH derivatives, according to FOX 9.

Bottom line

**Minnesota has officially raised the kratom purchasing age to 21, with criminal penalties for violations — making it one of the most regulated kratom states in the nation short of an outright ban.**