Picente Signs Local Law Prohibiting Sale of KratomView

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today signed into law legislation prohibiting the sale of kratom and kratom-derived products throughout Oneida County.

The action comes after a public hearing on the local law was conducted Wednesday. The signed legislation has been submitted to the New York State Secretary of State in accordance with state requirements.

"Today, this important legislation becomes law, and with it comes a clear message: Oneida County will not stand by while products that pose serious risks to our residents are sold in our communities," Picente said. "Kratom and kratom-derived products have no place on store shelves in Oneida County. We are taking decisive action to protect our residents, our families and our neighborhoods from the harmful effects of these substances, and this law gives us the authority to hold those who violate it accountable."

Kratom, also known by its scientific name Mitragyna speciosa, is commonly sold as teas, powders and capsules. Health officials warn that kratom can affect the brain similarly to opioids and has been associated with risks including abuse, addiction and other adverse health effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved kratom for medical use.

Picente first announced his intent to ban the substance during his State of the County Address on May 8, 2026, identifying kratom as an emerging public health concern and calling for local action to address the growing availability of products with opioid-like effects. A public health order banning the sale of kratom and kratom-derived products was then issued by the Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) and went into effect on June 5th. Picente proposed the local law on June 30th. It was unanimously approved by the Oneida County Board of Legislators on August 12th. The public health order remains in effect until New York State officially files the law the county submitted Wednesday.

Both the order and law cite concerns regarding mitragynine, the primary psychoactive alkaloid found in kratom, and the ability for compounds derived from it to be altered into substances that pose heightened public health concerns.

OCHD officials and law enforcement agencies are authorized to conduct compliance checks and confiscate products at businesses and retail establishments throughout the county.

"Enforcement is active and ongoing," Picente said. "Businesses should take immediate steps to ensure these products are removed from shelves and are no longer offered for sale. Our goal is compliance and protecting the health and safety of the community."

Under the public health order and local law:

• The sale or offer for sale of kratom, products containing kratom and products derived from kratom is prohibited throughout Oneida County.
• Compliance checks may occur during routine inspections, in response to complaints or as part of criminal investigations.
• Prohibited products will be confiscated and destroyed in accordance with OCHD policy.
• Under the proposed local law, violations will result in the following:
  • Civil penalty of $500 for the unlawful distribution or sale of kratom.
  • Each subsequent violation will result in a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 per item confiscated.

The order and law apply to any person or business in Oneida County where kratom or kratom-derived products are sold.

This prohibition does not apply to the sale or distribution of FDA-approved Kratom and/or Kratom dispensed by a licensed pharmacist consistent with a prescription from a licensed physician.

Businesses seeking additional information regarding compliance may contact the Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5064 or [email protected].