Washington State Bill Would Create First Statewide Kratom Regulation Framework With Age Limits and Licensing

Why it matters

Washington state is weighing its first legal framework to regulate kratom — including age limits, licensing requirements, and an 11% sales tax — but a preemption clause that would override existing local kratom bans has sparked opposition from cities that already prohibit kratom sales.

The big picture

HB 2291, sponsored by Rep. Kristine Reeves (D–Federal Way), would place kratom under the authority of the state Liquor and Cannabis Board, treating it similarly to alcohol or cannabis regulation. Meanwhile, two Senate bills (SB 6196 and SB 6287) take a harsher approach, proposing a 95% tax without preempting local authority to impose stricter rules. Several Washington cities have already enacted local kratom sales bans, creating a patchwork of regulations the House bill would consolidate — but cities are pushing back.

Key findings

• HB 2291 would require kratom processor and retailer licenses under the state Liquor and Cannabis Board
• Purchases would be restricted to adults 21 and over, and an 11% sales tax would apply to all kratom sales
• The bill limits synthetic additives in kratom products
• A preemption clause in the House bill would override existing city-level kratom bans, drawing opposition from the Association of Washington Cities
• Two Senate alternatives (SB 6196, SB 6287) propose a 95% tax and would not preempt local authority

What they say

Cities should maintain their authority to prohibit kratom sales, said the Association of Washington Cities, which testified at the hearing and is working with the bill sponsor to improve the proposal.

Bottom line

Washington state's competing kratom bills highlight a fundamental tension in U.S. drug policy: whether state-level regulatory frameworks should supersede local bans, or allow cities to impose stricter protections than the state.