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Is kratom legal in Arkansas? NO — kratom is banned in Arkansas. The sale, possession, and use of kratom are illegal under Arkansas state law. Read on for details about the ban, penalties, and ongoing legalization efforts.

Kratom is illegal in Arkansas. The state banned kratom in 2015 when Act 1100 was signed into law, adding mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine to the Arkansas Controlled Substances Act as Schedule I substances. The law went into effect on October 14, 2015. Under Arkansas law, kratom is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, the most restrictive category. This classification places kratom in the same legal category as substances deemed to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. The sale, possession, distribution, and use of kratom are all illegal in Arkansas. Penalties for kratom-related offenses in Arkansas are governed by the state’s controlled substances laws. Possession of kratom can result in criminal charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony depending on the amount. Sale or distribution of kratom can lead to felony charges with significant prison time and fines. Legalization efforts in Arkansas have been challenging. Bills to reverse the kratom ban and establish a Kratom Consumer Protection Act have been introduced in the Arkansas legislature, but none have succeeded as of 2026. The American Kratom Association has targeted Arkansas as a priority state for legalization efforts, working with local advocates and sympathetic legislators to build support. The proximity of Arkansas to states where kratom is legal (such as Texas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee) creates particular challenges for travelers. Individuals carrying kratom through Arkansas or visiting the state from a state where kratom is legal should be aware that possession is a criminal offense regardless of where the kratom was purchased. If you are in Arkansas, do not buy, possess, or use kratom. It is a criminal offense under state law.

What to Do If You’re in Arkansas

Since kratom is illegal in Arkansas, residents cannot legally purchase, possess, or use kratom products. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

  • Do not order kratom online for delivery to Arkansas. Reputable vendors will not ship to states where kratom is banned, but some may not have proper address verification. Receiving kratom in Arkansas is illegal.
  • Do not bring kratom into Arkansas from other states. Even if you purchased kratom legally in another state, possessing it in Arkansas is a criminal offense.
  • Support legalization efforts. If you want to see kratom legalized in Arkansas, consider supporting the American Kratom Association and contacting your state legislators.
  • Consult healthcare providers about legal alternatives that may be available in Arkansas.

Pending Legislation

Bills to legalize kratom have been introduced but have not passed.

Penalties

Possession can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on amount. Sale or distribution can result in serious felony charges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom in Arkansas

When was kratom banned in Arkansas?

Kratom was banned in Arkansas on October 14, 2015, when Act 1100 went into effect. The law added kratom’s primary alkaloids to the state’s Schedule I controlled substances list.

Can I drive through Arkansas with kratom?

No. Possessing kratom in Arkansas is illegal regardless of where it was purchased. If you are traveling through Arkansas from a state where kratom is legal, you must remove all kratom products from your vehicle before entering the state to avoid potential criminal charges.

Is there hope for kratom legalization in Arkansas?

Advocacy groups, including the American Kratom Association, continue to push for kratom legalization in Arkansas. Bills have been introduced but have not passed as of 2026. Legalization remains possible but uncertain. Residents can support legalization efforts through advocacy organizations.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Kratom laws change frequently. Always verify the current legal status of kratom in your state and locality before purchasing or possessing kratom products. This page was last updated in April 2026. The information provided here may not reflect the most recent legislative changes. Consult with a legal professional if you have questions about kratom legality in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links, and we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them at no additional cost to you.