This Kratom Ban Update for 2025 will reveal several public arguments that are going on in various states regarding the status of Kratom. Some people are working against this botanical herb and its efficacy, while there are thousands of users all over the country who want it to be legalized in their state.
Where is Kratom banned in the US? Everyone must know if this herb is allowed in their state or not so that they can use it without any issues. State-by-state laws continue to evolve, and the American Kratom Association has a huge role to play in advocating this botanical. Here is the detail of the Kratom ban in 2025.
States Where Is Kratom Banned In US
In 2025, Kratom remains banned in several states, which include Arkansas, Alabama, Rhode Island, Vermont, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Here’s an in-depth look at these states.
1. Arkansas
Arkansas has not allowed the use of Kratom, and the lawmakers are firm on their decision taken in 2016. There are numerous users in the state, but due to a ban in the region, they cannot possess, sell or buy Kratom.
When was Kratom banned in Arkansas?
Kratom was banned in Arkansas in 2016 under Schedule I of the state’s controlled substances list. This step was taken after some users faced health issues.
Why is Kratom banned in Arkansas?
Authorities argue that Kratom is not safe for human consumption. They believe that it can have serious side effects if consumed in heavy amounts.
What is AKA doing to make kratom legal?
The AKA is constantly advocating the use of Kratom as it can be an excellent alternative for low energy levels and lack of motivation. Moreover, the AKA talks about Kratom’s recommended dosage to avoid over-consumption.
Will Kratom become legal in Arkansas in the near future?
Despite ongoing efforts, legalizing Kratom in Arkansas faces many hurdles due to strong opposition from lawmakers and medical professionals.
2. Alabama
Alabama also established a rule against Kratom some years ago. If you reside in this state, you will not find any online shop that ships to your area. Moreover, there are no smoke shops or head shops that sell Kratom in the state. Here are all the details for people living in this state.
When was Kratom banned in Alabama?
Back in 2016, Alabama classified Kratom as a Schedule I substance. This step was taken after there was an uproar against the over-consumption of this substance and its side effects.
Why is Kratom banned in Alabama?
The FDA does not regulate Kratom products, which means that there is no check on Kratom manufacturers. This reason made Alabama state lawmakers decide against allowing the herb.
What is AKA doing to make Kratom legal?
The AKA continues to advocate for legislative reviews and public education on Kratom’s positive impact. The awareness campaign includes user reviews and cases where this herb helped people overcome chronic pain.
Will kratom become legal in Alabama in the near future?
While AKA’s initiatives are being recognized, the legal status of this botanical has not changed.
3. Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s Governor has officially signed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), reversing the state’s criminalization law and restoring access to this natural plant for thousands of residents. For years, Rhode Islanders were denied the right to choose kratom as part of their wellness journey due to outdated and fear-based legislation. But now, with the stroke of a pen, science, advocacy, and common sense have finally prevailed.
The KCPA will go into effect April 1, 2026 to give time to structure a kratom tax plan.
This landmark decision marks the first time in U.S. history that a state has reversed a kratom ban—a groundbreaking milestone not just for Rhode Island, but for the entire kratom community across the country. Rhode Island becomes the 18th state to enact the KCPA, setting a powerful precedent for others to follow. It sends a clear message: when people raise their voices, lawmakers can and will listen.
Rhode Island just made history by choosing facts over fear and enacting protective, reasonable regulations for kratom instead of prohibition. This is a huge step forward — but it must not be the last. We need to take this momentum and push for reform in every remaining state that still bans kratom. Let’s make Rhode Island the beginning of a new chapter for kratom in America.
4. Vermont
Vermont is also one of the few states that are firm about banning Kratom. Here are all the details that can help Vermont residents understand the status of this herb.
When was Kratom banned in Vermont?
Vermont outlawed kratom in 2016. This ban came after the spread of unwanted results due to overdose. The state has been strict regarding the possession, sale, and purchase of this substance.
Why is Kratom banned in Vermont?
The state’s decision was due to the overdose incidents. However, even before that, Vermont remained doubtful about this herb due to a lack of regulation from the FDA.
What is AKA doing to make Kratom legal?
The AKA is constantly working in Vermont to change this legislation. The association is in talks with lawmakers urging them to reconsider, emphasizing regulation over prohibition.
Will Kratom become legal in Vermont in the near future?
The chances of legalization seem low, but there has been some progress in this area. However, the AKA’s consistent efforts may lead to legislative reviews.
5. Indiana
Indiana has strict laws when compared to other central and northern states. People are not allowed to use Kratom in the state. A person who violates this law can be fined or punished severely.
When was Kratom banned in Indiana?
Indiana was the first state to ban Kratom. This rule was imposed in 2014, and since then, many incidents have urged state lawmakers to keep the ban.
Why is Kratom banned in Indiana?
Officials classify kratom as a synthetic drug and claim that it is harmful for human consumption. There are other reasons, such as severe side effects of overdose, due to which Indiana has banned Kratom.
What is AKA doing to make Kratom legal?
The AKA is working consistently to educate people about Kratom. The association aims to correct misinformation and advocate for Kratom’s regulation.
Will Kratom become legal in Indiana in the near future?
Despite advocacy, the state laws have proven to be irreversible, and there has been no positive change in the status of Kratom in Indiana. The legalization of kratom is a long-term challenge.
6. Wisconsin
Finally, Wisconsin is the last of the states where Kratom is banned. The lawmakers have been strict with the use of natural botanicals, and Kratom is one of them.
When was Kratom banned in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin banned kratom in 2014. It is one of the first states that defied federal law and created strict rules regarding the use of Kratom in the state.
Why is Kratom banned in Wisconsin?
The ban was enacted due to concerns over Kratom’s potential for misuse and its classification as a synthetic substance.
What is AKA doing to make Kratom legal?
The AKA is trying to educate people that Kratom is not a synthetic drug but a botanical substance which has numerous benefits. Moreover, it is advocating for regulatory frameworks that address safety.
Will Kratom become legal in Wisconsin in the near future?
Legislation changes seem unlikely in the immediate future but remain a goal for advocates.
7. Louisiana
Louisiana Kratom Ban Update – July 2025
As of May 30, 2025, Louisiana is on the verge of enacting one of the most severe statewide kratom bans in the country. Senate Bill 154 (SB 154) has passed both the Louisiana House and Senate and now awaits final approval from Governor Jeff Landry. If signed into law, the ban will go into effect August 1, 2025, making it a criminal offense to possess, sell, or distribute kratom anywhere in the state.
What’s in SB 154?
SB 154 reclassifies kratom’s natural alkaloids—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—as Schedule I controlled substances under Louisiana’s Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law. This classification puts kratom in the same legal category as heroin and LSD, despite growing evidence supporting its traditional use and therapeutic potential.
Penalties for Kratom in Louisiana Starting August 1, 2025
-
Possession of over 14 grams:
Up to 5 years in prison, with or without hard labor -
Possession under 14 grams:
A $500 fine -
Manufacture or Distribution:
Fines up to $50,000 and 1 to 5 years in prison
These penalties target everyday consumers, small businesses, and traditional herbal practitioners alike.
Widespread Opposition and Calls for a Veto
The American Kratom Association (AKA) and kratom advocates across the state are urging Governor Landry to veto SB 154. Over 325,000 Louisianans, including veterans, patients, and those recovering from substance abuse, rely on pure, natural kratom to maintain quality of life.
Advocates are calling for the creation of a Louisiana Kratom Commission to explore regulation, safety standards, and scientific research—rather than criminalization.
What You Can Do
If you live in Louisiana or support natural alternatives like kratom, this is the time to contact Governor Jeff Landry and voice your opposition to SB 154. Consumers deserve access to safe, lab-tested kratom—not jail time for drinking herbal tea.
Stay updated and learn more at our Louisiana Kratom Ban resource page.
How Are People Reacting to the Kratom Ban in Their States?
The public’s reactions regarding the Kratom ban are not very pleasant, as hundreds of thousands of people want it to be legal. However, there is a fraction of society that thinks that the ban is a good step.
The Kratom ban is not welcomed in most places, and people are trying to create awareness so that lawmakers can consider allowing this botanical. Advocacy groups and users actively campaign for lifting bans, often highlighting scientific studies that refute the risks cited by opponents.
How To Buy Kratom in a Banned State?
Many people ask where is Kratom banned in the US, and now they have the answer. But if you buy this substance in any of these states, it will be penalized. To use Kratom, some individuals turn to neighboring states or online vendors operating in legal jurisdictions. However, these practices risk legal consequences.
If you live in any of the states mentioned above, you will not be able to buy or sell Kratom. If you are caught with this herb, the punishment can be serious. Advocacy efforts aim to establish regulated access nationwide, but till then, you will have to go to neighboring states where Kratom is allowed to use it. Do not bring kratom into a banned state!
Conclusion
The Kratom Ban Update for 2025 gives insight into the ongoing conflict between advocates and opponents. Questions like what states Kratom is banned from and whether legalization is possible in the near future remain central. While progress is slow, organizations like the AKA continue to push for regulatory reforms, keeping the debate alive.
