NC H747

Prohibits the sale or distribution of kratom products to anyone under 18 years of age; violators are guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor, with defenses available for those who demand proof of age or use approved age verification systems.

Requires retailers selling kratom to train employees on age verification requirements and mandates third-party age verification for internet and remote sales of kratom products.

Makes it illegal for minors to purchase kratom products or use false identification; violations are infractions, though law enforcement and the Department of Health and Human Services may use minors under 18 to test compliance with written parental consent.

Establishes penalties for sending or assisting anyone under 18 to purchase kratom as a Class 2 misdemeanor, with exceptions for authorized law enforcement and state health inspections.

Directs the Legislative Research Commission to study the public health impacts of kratom and nitrous oxide use and report findings with proposed legislation to the 2017 General Assembly by December 1, 2016.