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Massachusetts Bans Kratom Sales, Classifies It Schedule I

8/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Governor Maura Healey issued an order banning kratom sales and classifying it Schedule I after a 14-day notice.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein said boards may seize kratom and enforce the ban.
Officials warned kratom can cause opioid-like dependence, seizures and at least 100 deaths in Massachusetts.
A House bill would fine sellers $500 to $1,000 for under-21, via a helpline that lets callers text or call “HOPE” to 800-327-5050.

History

Historical Context

Early 20th-century drug laws culminated in the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, signed by President Richard Nixon, which placed marijuana in Schedule I among five schedules. The act led to the 1973 creation of the Drug Enforcement Administration. In 2024 Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts invoked that precedent to ban kratom, echoing the federal schedule-I approach.

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Story summary

Governor Maura Healey issued an order banning kratom sales and classifying it Schedule I after a 14-day notice.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein said boards may seize kratom and enforce the ban.
Officials warned kratom can cause opioid-like dependence, seizures and at least 100 deaths in Massachusetts.
A House bill would fine sellers $500 to $1,000 for under-21, via a helpline that lets callers text or call “HOPE” to 800-327-5050.

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