Spokane Becomes Largest U.S. City to Ban Kratom Sales in 6-1 Council Vote

Why it matters

Spokane is the largest U.S. city to enact a local kratom ban, setting a precedent as state and federal regulators have failed to act. The ordinance directly affects residents who use kratom for pain management or opioid harm reduction.

The big picture

With no federal or state regulation in place, dozens of cities and counties across the U.S. have resorted to local bans. The Spokane vote came after the Washington State legislature failed to pass any of three competing kratom bills this session, ranging from a 95% tax to age restrictions. Local leaders argue that gap in oversight leaves children and vulnerable communities exposed.

Key findings

• Spokane City Council voted 6-1 to ban kratom sales citywide, effective immediately
• Mayor Lisa Brown proposed the ban citing advertisements near high schools, law enforcement warnings, and kratom-linked deaths in Idaho jails
• Selling kratom is now a civil infraction; retailers can lose their business licenses for violations
• Councilman Michael Cathcart cast the only no vote, arguing more research is needed before an outright ban
• The ordinance includes a sunset clause: the ban ends automatically if state or federal regulation preempts it
• Washington State considered three kratom bills this session — a 95% tax, an age-21 restriction, and a mixed bill — none passed their committees

What they say

Mayor Lisa Brown said: "We think it is clearly the right thing to do for public health and especially the protection of young people."

Bottom line

Spokane's 6-1 vote makes it the largest U.S. city to ban kratom sales — a move likely to influence other municipalities while state and federal regulators remain deadlocked.