If you’re a kratom fan living or visiting North Carolina, it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with kratom’s current legal status in the NC. The good news is that kratom, for now at least, is legal in North Carolina and widely available in the state. Still, there are some important laws and regulations you should know about before buying or using it. Let’s dive into the details about kratom in NC and its legal status.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always check local laws and consult professionals for specific guidance.
Is Kratom Legal in NC? The Current Legal Status
Yes, kratom is legal in North Carolina, but with one restriction: it cannot be sold to or used by individuals under 18 years old. Anyone above that age can legally buy, sell, and use kratom across the state.
North Carolina Kratom Laws: A Timeline
North Carolina has considered banning kratom several times in the past. However, none of these efforts succeeded, and the state has instead opted for minimal regulation - a minimum age requirement.
2016: The Push to Ban Kratom
In 2016, North Carolina lawmakers introduced Senate Bill 830, which aimed to classify kratom as a controlled substance. If passed, the bill would have made it illegal to buy, sell, or possess kratom in the state.
The proposed ban was based on concerns over kratom’s potential risks, including its association with opioid overdoses. However, many of these claims were based on limited or unreliable data.
Kratom advocates, including consumers and organizations like the American Kratom Association, pushed back. They highlighted the lack of concrete evidence against kratom and its potential benefits when used responsibly.
As a result, the bill died in committee and was never voted on.
House Bill 747: The Current Regulation
Later in 2016, a revised bill, House Bill 747, was introduced. This bill proposed regulating kratom rather than banning it outright. Under HB-747, selling or distributing kratom to minors was prohibited. The bill passed and remains the only statewide regulation on kratom in North Carolina. For now, at least.
Where Can You Buy Kratom in North Carolina?
Kratom is widely available throughout the state, so you shouldn’t find it overly difficult to find the right store or smoke shop, whether you’re buying locally or online. Just be sure you choose the quality product. Here’s how to ensure that:
- Check for AKA Certification. The American Kratom Association (AKA) certifies vendors that meet strict quality and safety standards. Look for the AKA seal when choosing a seller.
- Look for Lab-Tested Products. Lab testing ensures that kratom is free of contaminants like heavy metals or synthetic additives. Always ask for lab reports if they’re not provided upfront.
In addition to these two, be sure to read reviews and check the vendor’s reputation. A trusted seller will have positive feedback from other customers.
What Does the Future Hold for Kratom in NC?
Although North Carolina allows kratom’s use, it’s difficult to say what the future holds. With past attempts to ban kratom, its legal status could change.
The truth is that kratom’s availability and regulation depend on public perception and ongoing discussions about its safety. Advocates continue to push for measures like the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which would create more consistent regulations while keeping kratom legal in the state.
For now, adults in North Carolina can enjoy kratom responsibly, but staying informed about legal updates is essential.
Key Takeaways
So yes, currently, kratom is legal in North Carolina. As long as you’re over 18 years old, you can buy, sell, store, and use kratom products available in the state’s numerous local stores and retailers.
However, with the past attempts to ban kratom, the future of its legality in NC remains uncertain. Be sure to stay informed about potential changes.
