Kratom Ban Update – States Where Kratom Is Illegal 2025

The Kratom Ban has been a controversial issue across the United States, with various states taking strict actions against its sale and use. While some states have regulated Kratom, others have entirely outlawed it. This Kratom Ban Update guide explores states where kratom is illegal 2025 and if there is hope for its legalization in the future.

Kratom advocates say that the herb has been misunderstood and unfairly classified, while opponents claim it poses serious health dangers. The debate continues, with lawmakers facing pressure from both sides to make a final decision.

States Where Kratom Is Illegal 2025

Arkansas

In 2016, Arkansas officially classified Kratom as a Schedule I substance, putting it in the same category as some of the most dangerous drugs. Authorities argued that Kratom posed risks similar to opioids despite strong counterarguments from advocates.

The American Kratom Association (AKA) has diligently been educating lawmakers on Kratom’s benefits, pushing for a legal, regulated market instead of a full-blown ban. Though their efforts have gained attention, Arkansas lawmakers remain hesitant to reverse the decision, making it uncertain whether Kratom will be legalized shortly.

Many Kratom supporters in the state have called the ban unfair and unnecessary, arguing that a proper regulatory framework could promote its safe use rather than banning it outright. Still, Arkansas remains one of the most challenging states in terms of Kratom reform.

Alabama

Kratom was banned in Alabama in 2016 when its primary alkaloids were classified as Schedule I substances. State officials claimed that the herb had opioid-like properties, making it unsafe to consume. However, Kratom supporters argue that banning it only limits natural alternatives for those in need.

The AKA has been working to lift the ban with the help of lawmakers and advocating through public awareness. Unfortunately, Alabama officials are resolute in their stance, and there’s little indication that Kratom will be made legal again anytime soon.

Despite scientific studies suggesting that Kratom may offer medicinal benefits, Alabama continues to align with the strictest states in terms of Kratom prohibition. Alabama users have been angry, noting that certain pharmaceutical opioids are still freely available while a natural alternative like Kratom is outlawed altogether.

Rhode Island

In 2017, Rhode Island opted to outlaw Kratom and made the decision based on the fact that the FDA has not approved it and that the plant poses some potential risks. The move drew backlash from Kratom users who claimed it was a natural alternative for managing specific ailments.

The AKA has since been pushing for re-evaluation, presenting scientific research to challenge the ban. Recently, there have been talks of reconsidering Kratom’s legal status, but no final decision has been made. For now, Kratom remains illegal in Rhode Island, though future legislation could change that.

State lawmakers have been somewhat receptive to hearing the other side of the argument, but the progress has been incremental. Advocacy groups continue to push for reform, arguing that Kratom should be regulated rather than wholly banned.

Vermont

Vermont added Kratom’s active compounds to its controlled substances list in 2016, rendering the herb illegal in the state. Lawmakers justified the ban on grounds of public health concerns and a lack of regulation. However, Kratom advocates argue that prohibition is not the answer and that a regulated Kratom market would be a safer approach.

The AKA has been working to educate lawmakers and push for reclassification, but Vermont remains strict on its stance. There is no immediate sign that Kratom will be legalized in the near future.

Vermont officials have expressed concern about Kratom’s potential for abuse, yet they have not considered scientific studies that highlight its benefits. Despite ongoing advocacy, Vermont remains one of the most difficult states to challenge regarding Kratom legislation.

Indiana

Indiana was one of the earliest states to ban Kratom, outlawing it in 2014. State officials mistakenly classified Kratom as a synthetic drug despite it being a natural plant. The ban was implemented due to fears of misuse and addiction.

Since that time, the AKA has been working tirelessly to correct misinformation and advocate for Kratom’s legalization. Despite growing support from the Kratom community, Indiana’s lawmakers have yet to reconsider their stance, leaving little hope for a near-future reversal of the ban.

The incorrect classification of Kratom as a synthetic substance has led to confusion and resistance toward change. Kratom supporters continue to argue that the plant should be treated as a dietary supplement rather than an illicit drug, but the Indiana government has not moved in that direction.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin banned Kratom in 2014, listing its alkaloids as controlled substances. The decision was driven by concerns over safety and the lack of official regulatory guidelines. Kratom supporters argue that instead of banning the plant, lawmakers should focus on creating regulations that ensure its safe use.

The AKA has been lobbying for a legal path forward, stressing scientific research and consumer safety. However, Wisconsin officials remain hesitant, and the chances of Kratom becoming legal in the state soon are slim. When looking at the legality of Kratom in Wisconsin, many Kratom users have had to order it from neighboring states; however, purchasing Kratom in one state and transporting it to another has had its own set of legal risks.

Advocates remain hopeful that Wisconsin will eventually consider passing a Kratom Consumer Protection Act, similar to states that regulate the plant instead of prohibiting it entirely.

How People Are Reacting to the Kratom Ban in Their States?

Kratom users in banned states have said the prohibition is unfair, claiming it takes away a natural remedy. Many have turned to activism, signing petitions and participating in awareness campaigns led by the AKA.

Some lawmakers have shown interest in reviewing Kratom laws, but overall, progress has been slow. In online forums and advocacy groups, Kratom supporters continue to share their experiences, emphasizing the herb’s benefits and urging officials to reconsider their stance. Some individuals have even relocated to states where Kratom remains legal, further demonstrating the impact that prohibition has had on their lives.

How Can You Get Kratom in a Banned State?

For those wondering, Is Kratom legal in my state? The answer depends on where you live. In banned states, Kratom lovers typically travel to neighboring states where it is legal or order it online, though this carries legal risks.

Some also seek alternative herbal supplements with similar effects, but until legislation changes, obtaining Kratom in banned states remains a challenge. Black market sales have also emerged in some areas, but they come with risks, including contamination and inconsistent quality. Advocacy groups continue to push for legal access, but until then, residents of banned states have far fewer safe options for getting Kratom.

People living in Kratom-banned states can get kratom by visiting a nearby state where Kratom is legal. Reach that state and order Kratom from Christopher’s Kratom now.