Picente Introduces Local Law Banning Kratom in Oneida County

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today announced a proposed local law that would solidify the county’s public health order prohibiting the sale of kratom and kratom-derived products.

“Our public health order allowed us to act quickly to address concerns surrounding kratom and protect public health,” Picente said. “As we enforce that order to prohibit the sale of kratom and kratom-derived products in Oneida County, I am also advancing a local law that will further strengthen and formalize these protections for the long term. This legislation sends a clear message that Oneida County is taking this issue seriously and is committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of our residents.”

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 5^th.

The new proposed local law must be reviewed by the Board of Legislators for 30 days before it can be voted on. A public hearing will be scheduled during that time. If approved, the law would then be submitted for acceptance by the New York Secretary of State.

The public health order and proposed 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 proposed 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.

Businesses seeking additional information regarding compliance may contact the Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5064 or environmentalhealth@oneidacountyny.gov.

Watch the video of the press conference here.