Bellingham council approves kratom sales ban, keeps possession legal

Why it matters

Bellingham has prohibited local sales and distribution of all kratom products, but the ordinance leaves possession and personal use legal. The distinction affects retailers and residents differently.

The big picture

The city council passed the measure after neighboring Mount Vernon adopted a similar sales and distribution ban. Councilmember Michael Lilliquist described Bellingham’s ordinance as a stopgap while state and federal agencies consider broader action.

Key findings

• Bellingham City Council approved the ordinance 6-0 on September 28, with one member absent.
• The measure bans the sale and distribution of all kratom products within city limits.
• Possession and personal use remain legal under the ordinance.
• Councilmember Michael Lilliquist said city governments cannot set product labeling and packaging requirements.
• The report says Mount Vernon had already passed a similar local ban.

What they say

“This is what I hope will be a stopgap way of protecting our public from potentially dangerous compounds at ridiculously high concentrations until other levels of government step in and do perhaps a better job,” Bellingham City Councilmember Michael Lilliquist said.

Bottom line

Bellingham barred kratom sales and distribution, while leaving possession and use lawful.