NJ A3797

Designates kratom (mitragyna speciosa korth) as a controlled dangerous substance in New Jersey, prohibiting its manufacture, distribution, sale, and possession

Manufacturing, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute kratom in amounts of one ounce or more is a second-degree crime, punishable by 5-10 years imprisonment and fines up to $150,000

Manufacturing, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute less than one ounce is a third-degree crime, punishable by 3-5 years imprisonment and fines up to $15,000

Simple possession of one ounce or more is a third-degree crime; possession of less than one ounce is a fourth-degree crime punishable by up to 18 months imprisonment and fines up to $10,000

Named "CJ's Law" in memory of Christopher James Holowach, who died at age 33 from cardiac arrest caused by a drug mixture that included kratom, which he used for pain relief while in recovery from opioid addiction