NJ A1617

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

Manufacturing, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute 1 ounce or more of kratom is a second-degree crime punishable by 5-10 years imprisonment and up to $150,000 fine; less than 1 ounce is a third-degree crime with 3-5 years and up to $15,000 fine

Simple possession of 1 ounce or more is a third-degree crime; possession of less than 1 ounce is a fourth-degree crime punishable by up to 18 months imprisonment and up to $10,000 fine

Named "CJ's Law" after Christopher James Holowach, who died at age 33 from cardiac arrest caused by a drug mixture that included kratom while he was using it for pain management during recovery from opioid addiction

Kratom is already banned in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin, and the FDA has warned it affects opioid brain receptors and poses risks of addiction, abuse, and dependence