Public health order to ban the sale of kratom in Albany County

August 22, 2026 - 09:34

Albany County is preparing to halt the sale of kratom, a herbal supplement with opioid-like effects, following a new directive from county leadership. County Executive Daniel P. McCoy announced on Friday that the Albany County Department of Health will formally issue a public health order to prohibit the sale of the substance. The move comes after months of review by health officials who have raised concerns about the product's safety, potential for addiction, and lack of federal regulation.

Kratom, derived from a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, is often sold as a powder, capsule, or tea. While some users claim it helps with pain relief or opioid withdrawal, medical experts point to growing evidence of severe side effects, including liver damage, seizures, and even death. The county's health department has reportedly documented a rise in emergency room visits linked to kratom use in the region.

The public health order will take effect after a brief notice period, giving local retailers time to remove the product from their shelves. Businesses that continue to sell kratom after the order is enforced could face fines or other penalties. McCoy emphasized that the decision was not made lightly but was necessary to protect residents from an unregulated substance with known risks. The county is also planning to launch an awareness campaign to educate the public about the dangers of kratom and to offer resources for those seeking help with dependency.