New York Moves Toward Safer Kratom Regulation

New York is on the verge of enacting landmark legislation to regulate kratom, a plant-based substance often used for self-treating pain and anxiety. The bills, which have passed both the state Senate and Assembly, now await the governor’s signature. Co-sponsored by Assembly members Mary Beth Walsh and Phil Steck, the legislation was inspired by the tragic death of Nick Scribner, whose mother now advocates for greater oversight.

The new rules would require kratom products to carry warning labels and ban marketing them as “all-natural.” Additionally, buyers must be 21 or older. Lawmakers and advocates believe these measures will enhance consumer safety and harm reduction. The Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust praised New York’s efforts, calling the state a “national leader” in this area. For more details, see the original report at CBS6 Albany.