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

Kratom is illegal in Rhode Island. The state banned kratom in 2017 when the Rhode Island legislature added mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine to the state’s list of Schedule I controlled substances under Rhode Island General Laws Section 21-28-2.08. The ban made Rhode Island one of only a handful of states to completely prohibit kratom. Under Rhode Island law, kratom is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, placing it in the same category as substances with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. The possession, sale, distribution, and use of kratom are all criminal offenses in Rhode Island. Penalties for kratom violations in Rhode Island follow the state’s controlled substances laws. Possession can result in criminal charges, while sale or distribution can lead to more severe penalties including potential felony charges. The exact penalties depend on the amount involved and other circumstances of the case. There have been efforts to reverse the kratom ban in Rhode Island. In 2023, a bill was introduced that would have legalized kratom and established a Kratom Consumer Protection Act framework for the state. While the bill received attention and some support, it did not pass. Advocacy groups continue to work toward legalization in future legislative sessions. Rhode Island’s small size means that residents who want to purchase kratom legally can relatively easily travel to neighboring states where kratom is legal, such as Connecticut and Massachusetts. However, bringing kratom back into Rhode Island would constitute illegal possession. If you are in Rhode Island, do not buy, possess, or use kratom. It is a criminal offense. Individuals traveling to Rhode Island from neighboring states should be aware of the ban and leave any kratom products behind.

What to Do If You’re in Rhode Island

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

Pending Legislation

A legalization bill was introduced in 2023 but did not pass. Future efforts are expected.

Penalties

Possession can result in criminal charges. Sale or distribution can lead to felony charges with potential prison time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom in Rhode Island

When was kratom banned in Rhode Island?

Kratom was banned in Rhode Island in 2017 when the state added mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine to its Schedule I controlled substances list. The ban makes it illegal to possess, sell, or use kratom in the state.

What are the penalties for kratom possession in Rhode Island?

Kratom possession in Rhode Island is a criminal offense under the state’s controlled substances laws. Penalties can include fines and potential jail time. Sale or distribution carries more severe penalties, including potential felony charges.

Can I bring kratom into Rhode Island from Massachusetts or Connecticut?

No. Even though kratom is legal in Massachusetts and Connecticut, bringing it into Rhode Island is illegal. Possessing kratom in Rhode Island is a criminal offense regardless of where it was purchased. Leave all kratom products behind before entering the state.

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.