Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Attorney General William Tong, and state officials from the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and Connecticut State Police are highlighting new regulations that classify several substances as Schedule I controlled substances in Connecticut, effective Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

These substances have been sold in various forms, including beverages, tinctures, pills, and gummies. Any product containing the following substances is now illegal to possess, manufacture, sell, or distribute:

• Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), including its leaves, stems and extracts
• 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH, a kratom derivative)
• Bromazolam
• Flubromazolam
• Nitazenes, including, but not limited to, isotonitazene
• Tianeptine
• Phenibut

“I’m proud to be part of a team that prioritizes the health, well-being, and safety of our residents and has worked tirelessly to remove these dangerous substances from our shelves,” Bysiewicz said. “Often marketed as safe and offered in candy-like flavors, these substances pose a clear threat, especially to individuals battling substance use disorder and to young people. This change is a necessary step in combating addiction.”

Tong announced that letters have been sent to all known distributors and manufacturers of kratom products to ensure compliance with the law.

“As of Wednesday (03/25), it is illegal to possess, manufacture, sell or distribute these drugs, including kratom and tianeptine, sometimes referred to as ‘gas station heroin,’” Tong said. “These products are unsafe and untested. If you see them, do not purchase them — contact law enforcement. Distributors are on notice: if you sell these substances in Connecticut, you will be held accountable.”

DCP Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli said the substances have no approved medical use and have been widely available in locations easily accessible to children and other vulnerable populations.

“These products were never regulated, tested or deemed safe for human consumption,” Cafferelli said. “They were marketed as health products, misleading consumers. In reality, they are addictive, have a high potential for misuse, and pose a serious threat to public health. This effort also ensures that individuals who need support for withdrawal are not left behind.”

DMHAS Commissioner Nancy Navarretta emphasized the importance of access to treatment and recovery services.

“Kratom use is more common than many realize, and its risks are often misunderstood,” Navarretta said. “No one should hesitate to seek help. Treatment works, and recovery is possible. Call the Access Line at 1-800-563-4086 or dial 2-1-1 for immediate assistance.”

Col. Daniel Loughman of the Connecticut State Police underscored enforcement efforts.

“The classification of kratom as a Schedule I substance establishes a clear legal standard,” Loughman said. “Illegal sale or distribution will result in enforcement action, including arrest and prosecution.”

State Rep. Tracy Marra said the change is an important step in protecting young people.

“Banning these substances sends a strong message that Connecticut will not tolerate the spread of synthetic, opioid-like drugs that can lead to long-term addiction,” Marra said. “We’ve taken action at the state level — now we need neighboring states and the federal government to do the same.”

Kristin Sandler, outreach coordinator for Southington STEPS, said youth identified kratom as an emerging concern.

“Students were especially concerned about how appealing these products are to young people and how easily they can be accessed in retail settings,” Sandler said.

The Legislative Regulation Review Committee approved the changes in February.

For businesses:

• Remove these products from shelves immediately
• Return products to wholesalers or properly destroy them

For individuals seeking help:
Support, including treatment and recovery services, is available through DMHAS. Individuals can also contact DCP’s Drug Control Division at DCP.DrugControl@ct.gov with questions.

Source: CT Department of Consumer Protection