Spokane City Council Approves Prohibition of Kraton Sales

~ Spokane City Council Bans Sale and Distribution of Kratom

During Monday's Legislative Session, the Spokane City Council made a significant decision to protect public health by approving an ordinance that prohibits the sale and distribution of kratom within the city limits. The ordinance, C36820, was introduced by Mayor Lisa Brown and passed with a 6-1 vote.

Mayor Brown expressed her gratitude to the City Council for their support in this matter, stating that Spokane was the first city in the region to introduce such legislation. She also noted that other jurisdictions are now following their lead, which is a clear indication of the need for regulation of kratom. "This ordinance will save lives and set a powerful example for other communities grappling with its harmful effects," said Mayor Brown.

The decision to ban kratom came after input from local public health advocates and the Spokane Police Department. They identified a ban as a necessary step to address concerns over the widespread distribution and availability of kratom in the community.

Kratom is a psychoactive plant that contains alkaloids, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), which have dose-dependent effects. At low levels, they act as stimulants, but at high levels, they can have effects similar to opioids and sedatives.

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Council Member Kate Telis, Chair of the Public Safety and Community Health Committee, emphasized that kratom is being sold without federal or state regulation, standardized testing, or reliable labeling. This lack of oversight means consumers have no way of knowing what they are buying or its potential risks and interactions. Telis stated that until there is rigorous research, consistent oversight, and transparent labeling, it is crucial to protect public health by not allowing unregulated psychoactive substances to be sold without accountability or safeguards.

Council Member Paul Dillon also expressed concern about the availability of kratom at gas stations without any regulation. He stated that this ban is an essential step in addressing the risks that kratom poses, especially to the youth in the community. Dillon thanked Mayor Brown and public health advocates for bringing this issue to light.

Council Member Zack Zappone, a teacher himself, shared his worries about students being able to purchase kratom and synthetic versions of it over the counter at convenience stores. He stressed that this is particularly dangerous because kratom can be addictive, and companies should not be allowed to market these products without thorough research into their effects on adults and youth.

The ordinance, C36820, will now go to Mayor Brown for review, who is expected to sign it. Once signed, it will go into effect in 30 days. This decision by the Spokane City Council sets an example for other communities to follow in regulating kratom and protecting public health.

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