New Jersey applies Schedule I rules to three synthetic kratom compounds

Why it matters

New Jersey officials say possessing or selling mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, MGM-15, or MGM-16 can result in criminal charges under a federal temporary scheduling order. The notice also clarifies that this action does not make natural kratom illegal in the state.

The big picture

In August, the DEA temporarily placed the three compounds in Schedule I. New Jersey law automatically adopts a federal scheduling unless the state’s Division of Consumer Affairs objects; the division did not object to this order.

Key findings

• The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office said the ban on possessing and selling the three compounds took effect September 25, 2026.
• The compounds named in the notice are mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, MGM-15, and MGM-16.
• The state says natural kratom and other unscheduled kratom-related compounds are not made illegal by this order.
• New Jersey automatically adopts federal drug scheduling unless the Division of Consumer Affairs objects; the agency did not object in this case.
• The DEA temporary order is scheduled to remain in effect until at least August 26, 2028, unless the state division changes it.

What they say

“Any individual or business found violating this ban could face criminal charges,” New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said.

Bottom line

New Jersey says its law now applies the DEA’s temporary Schedule I controls to three named synthetic kratom-related compounds, not to natural kratom.