Policy · 2026-06-08
New York Assembly Passes Bipartisan Bill to Ban Synthetic Kratom (7-OH)
Source: New York State Assembly
Why it matters
New York's unanimous bipartisan vote to ban synthetic 7-OH products signals growing political consensus that concentrated kratom derivatives pose a distinct and serious public health threat separate from natural kratom. If signed by Governor Hochul, the law would make New York the eighth state to prohibit 7-OH.
The big picture
The legislation follows the July 2025 FDA warnings about 7-hydroxymitragynine and builds on a 2025 New York law requiring warning labels on natural kratom products. States across the country are moving to regulate or ban 7-OH, which is chemically synthesized to concentrations far exceeding what occurs naturally in the kratom plant. The bill was inspired in part by the 2024 death of Ballston Spa resident Nick Scribner, whose mother became a leading advocate for stronger consumer protections.
Key findings
- The New York State Assembly unanimously passed bipartisan legislation on June 8, 2026, the last day of the legislative session, to ban synthetic kratom (7-OH)
- 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is approximately 13 times more potent than morphine, making it one of the most powerful opioid-like compounds available
- Synthetic 7-OH products are commonly sold in convenience stores, gas stations, and smoke shops, often packaged to resemble candy or energy drinks
- The bill was cosponsored across party lines by Democrats and Republicans, reflecting broad political consensus on the public health risk
- If signed by Governor Hochul, New York joins Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Indiana, Mississippi, Vermont, and Wisconsin in prohibiting 7-OH sales
What they say
"This legislation, combined with the kratom labeling law we passed last year, will help protect New Yorkers from dangerous and highly addictive substances," said Assemblymember Phil Steck (D-110th AD), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.
Bottom line
New York's unanimous bipartisan vote to ban synthetic 7-OH is the strongest legislative signal yet that concentrated kratom derivatives are being treated as a distinct opioid-level threat by policymakers.