New York Assembly Bill A02340

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/16/25
• Report Pass: 5/19/25
• Refer: 5/19/25
• Report Pass: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25
• Report Pass: 6/13/25

Caption

Prohibits the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of twenty-one; imposes a civil penalty of not more than five hundred dollars for the sale or provision of kratom to any person under the age of twenty-one.

Impact

If enacted, this bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning the sale of herbal products and ensure stricter regulations around substances that may pose health risks, particularly to youth. Businesses will be required to adhere to age verification protocols, which may change how kratom is sold within the state. Additionally, the enforcement of these regulations could lead to a broader discussion regarding substance regulation and community health standards across New York.

Summary

Bill A02340 proposes an amendment to the public health law, aimed at prohibiting the sale of kratom to individuals under the age of twenty-one. The legislation identifies kratom as any part of the plant Mitragyna speciosa and its derivatives, recognizing its growing popularity and the associated health concerns. The bill establishes that any person involved in the sale of kratom will face civil penalties for violations, emphasizing the importance of protecting younger populations from potentially harmful substances. A prominent feature requires businesses selling kratom to post a clear warning sign indicating the prohibition of sales to minors.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions surrounding personal freedom versus public health. Supporters believe that regulating kratom sales is necessary for safeguarding young individuals from its potential adverse effects. However, opponents may argue that such restrictions could infringe upon personal choice and the availability of alternative herbal remedies. The balance between public health and individual rights often becomes a contentious point in legislative discussions on similar issues.