SCRANTON, PA — The Scranton City Council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance banning the sale and distribution of kratom and synthetic kratom products to minors within city limits.
Sponsored by municipal officials and supported by the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office, the ordinance establishes local penalties for retailers selling Mitragyna Speciosa derivatives, mitragynine, and concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) to individuals under the age of 18. Under the new measure, violations constitute summary offenses punishable by fines and potential court fees.
The legislative action follows escalating public health warnings from local addiction specialists, law enforcement officers, and parents regarding high-potency extracts and synthetic formulations. Officials highlighted concerns over brightly packaged, commercialized kratom products—including gummies, flavored beverages, and chewable tablets—that resemble candy and are marketed directly toward young consumers.
While state lawmakers continue to review broader regulatory frameworks for herbal supplements, Scranton's targeted ordinance gives local authorities immediate enforcement power to restrict youth access at vape shops, convenience stores, and gas stations.
