Rhode Island Becomes First State to Legalize Kratom After Overturning 2017 Ban

Why it matters

Rhode Island becomes first state to overturn previous kratom ban, creating opportunity for licensed retail sales to adults 21+. Important policy reversal showing potential for legalization even in states with prior prohibition.

The big picture

Rhode Island originally banned kratom in 2017 alongside other substances, but after years of legislative debate and advocacy, the state has now become the first in the nation to legalize kratom through a new regulatory framework. The law bans synthetic 7-OH while allowing traditional kratom with training requirements similar to tobacco retail.

Key findings

• Rhode Island becomes first state to overturn prior kratom ban
• New law allows adults 21+ to purchase kratom from licensed retailers
• Licensing applications opened April 2, 2026
• Retailers must undergo training similar to tobacco product sales standards
• Synthetic 7-OH form remains banned under the new law
• Unclear timeline for when first licenses will be issued and products available
• Department of Health administers the licensing process

What they say

I hope that they don't try to block access of citizens to kratom products but rather look at it as what is a safely formulated, properly labeled and gated product that's available to Rhode Island citizens. — Mac Haddow, American Kratom Association

Bottom line

**Rhode Island pioneered state-level kratom legalization, creating a regulated market for adults 21+ while banning synthetic 7-OH products.**