Spokane Valley Bans Kratom 6-1, Joining Spokane in Creating a Regional Prohibition Across Eastern Washington

Why it matters

Two neighboring Washington cities — Spokane and Spokane Valley — have now enacted local kratom bans within days of each other, creating a de-facto regional prohibition despite the lack of statewide regulation and the failure of both Washington kratom bills this session.

The big picture

Spokane became the largest U.S. city to ban kratom when its council voted 6-1 in early March 2026. Spokane Valley followed within days, also voting 6-1. Both cities cited child safety and public health concerns. Washington State had two bills to regulate kratom in 2026, but neither advanced in the House or Senate, leaving local governments to act on their own.

Key findings

• Spokane Valley Council voted 6-1 to ban kratom, mirroring Spokane's ban passed days earlier
• Violations carry a $250 fine for first offense and $1,000 per subsequent violation; business licenses can be revoked
• A 30-day grace period allows retailers to clear inventory before enforcement begins
• Washington state regulation bills failed to advance in 2026, while Oregon has a consumer protection act regulating kratom
• Councilwoman Jessica Yaeger was the sole dissenter, arguing an age limit (21+) would be more appropriate than an outright ban

What they say

"This is a community safety issue, especially for our children. Kratom does not know the boundary of Spokane Valley." — Spokane City Council President Betsy Wilkerson, addressing Spokane Valley council

Bottom line

Spokane and Spokane Valley have created an unbroken regional kratom ban in eastern Washington through back-to-back local ordinances, even as state legislation to regulate the substance stalled in Olympia.