New York Legislature Unanimously Approves Ban on Synthetic Kratom (7-OH), Awaits Governor Hochul

Why it matters

If signed by Governor Hochul, New York would become the eighth state to ban 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), accelerating a national wave of state-level action against the potent kratom derivative sold widely at gas stations and vape shops.

The big picture

State legislatures across the U.S. have moved faster than federal regulators to restrict 7-OH products, even as the FDA and DEA debate federal scheduling. Nassau County had already enacted its own local ban in March 2026, while neighboring Suffolk County delayed a vote in April. Addiction specialists report seeing at least one 7-OH withdrawal patient per day in their detox facilities.

Key findings

• New York lawmakers voted unanimously to ban the sale of synthetic 7-OH products statewide
• The legislation targets concentrated, synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine — not natural kratom leaf products
• The bill heads to Governor Kathy Hochul, whose office said she will review the legislation
• If signed, New York becomes the eighth state to ban 7-OH
• One addiction center reports treating 7-OH withdrawal patients daily; a Long Island smoke shop reports 300+ customers per week seeking 7-OH despite Nassau County's local ban

What they say

"We see at least one patient every day who is in our detox, who is here specifically for 7-OH withdrawal," said Dr. Edmond Hakimi, medical director at Wellbridge Addiction Treatment and Research.

Bottom line

New York's unanimous legislative vote signals growing bipartisan consensus that synthetic 7-OH poses distinct public health risks, putting the decision squarely in Governor Hochul's hands.