Michigan Lawmakers Propose Kratom Ban

New bill would prohibit selling or growing kratom, with penalties up to 1 year in jail

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A group of Michigan lawmakers has introduced a new bill, House Bill 5537, that would ban the growth, sale, and distribution of kratom in the state. The proposed legislation would result in up to 90 days in jail, a $5,000 fine, or both for a first offense, with penalties increasing to up to 180 days in jail and a $10,000 fine for subsequent offenses. The bill would also criminalize selling kratom to anyone under 18, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

Why it matters

Kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia, has become increasingly popular in recent years, with some touting its potential benefits as a natural stimulant or pain reliever. However, the FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and has listed it as a "drug and chemical of concern." Michigan lawmakers are joining other states that have moved to ban kratom, citing concerns over its potential for abuse and negative health effects.

The details

The proposed Michigan bill, HB 5537, would amend the state's 1931 Penal Code to prohibit the growth, sale, and distribution of kratom. Violators could face up to 90 days in jail and a $5,000 fine for a first offense, with penalties increasing to 180 days in jail and a $10,000 fine for subsequent offenses. The bill would also make it a crime to sell kratom to anyone under 18, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

  • The bill was introduced in the Michigan legislature in February 2026.

The players

Michigan Lawmakers

A group of state legislators in Michigan who have introduced a bill to ban the growth, sale, and distribution of kratom.

Department of Justice

The federal agency that has listed kratom as a "drug and chemical of concern" due to its potential for causing "psychotic symptoms, and psychological and physiological dependence."

Sterling Heights Drug-Free Coalition

A local coalition in Sterling Heights, Michigan that has surveyed local stores and found that 40% of them carry kratom, prompting them to push for a city ordinance restricting its sale.

Aaron Susalla

The Sterling Heights Police Lieutenant who also serves as the president of the city's drug-free coalition. He has expressed concerns about the ease of access to kratom and its potential for abuse.

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What they’re saying

“It affects the same brain receptors as an opioid does,”

— Aaron Susalla, Sterling Heights Police Lieutenant and President of Drug-Free Coalition (cbsnews.com)

“For Sterling Heights, we are trying to restrict the age where you have to be 21 or older for the product,”

— Aaron Susalla, Sterling Heights Police Lieutenant and President of Drug-Free Coalition (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

If passed, the Michigan bill would make it illegal to grow, sell, or distribute kratom in the state, with penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $5,000 fine for a first offense, and up to 180 days in jail and a $10,000 fine for subsequent offenses. The bill would also criminalize selling kratom to anyone under 18, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation in Michigan reflects growing concerns among state and local leaders about the potential risks and abuse of kratom, a plant that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The bill aims to restrict access to kratom, particularly for young people, by imposing criminal penalties on its growth, sale, and distribution in the state.