In Maryland, kratom is subject to strict state enforcement and statutory sales restrictions under newly enacted legislation that took effect on July 1, 2026.

Key Legislative Changes (HB 1523 / SB 820)

• Signed into Law: Enacted on May 12, 2026, after passing both chambers of the Maryland General Assembly.
• Effective Date: Took full effect on July 1, 2026.
• Regulatory Restrictions & Age Limit: Prohibits selling or distributing kratom products to anyone under 21 years of age.
• Consumable Product Compliance: Restricts the sale of consumable kratom products unless compliant with state health standards or authorized as a food ingredient/drug.
• Enforcement Authority: Expands the authority of the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC) Field Enforcement Division to conduct retail inspections, issue citations, and seize, confiscate, or destroy non-compliant “unauthorized consumable products” and concentrated derivatives (such as high-potency 7-hydroxymitragynine).

Local Action

• City of Baltimore: The city maintains its own municipal restrictions and has pursued civil litigation against non-compliant manufacturers and distributors selling unauthorized or synthetic derivative products within city limits.

Bill History
HB1229 KCPA passed in May 2024
SB147 ban Feb 2020 failed
SB283 Feb 2020 died