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Mount Clemens introduces kratom ordinance after public comments urging regulation for adults 21+
Summary
Following public testimony, the commission introduced an ordinance to prohibit sale of kratom products to people under 21 and set an adoption date of March 16, 2026; supporters urged regulated adult access while some residents warned about marketing and product safety.
The Mount Clemens City Commission voted to introduce an ordinance that would prohibit the sale of kratom products to individuals under age 21 and provide for penalties and severability. The commission set March 16, 2026, as the adoption date for the ordinance.
At the podium, resident Emily Joy Howard told the commission she supports regulated access for adults aged 21 and older while banning synthetic or highly concentrated derivatives. "We must distinguish between natural leaf products and chemically concentrated or synthetic derivatives," Howard said, arguing that regulation (age limits, labeling, contaminant testing and vendor accountability) is preferable to outright prohibition because prohibition often pushes the product to unregulated markets.
City Manager Shipman and other staff said the ordinance was prepared by the city attorney. Commissioners voiced support for protecting youth and noted the proliferation of kratom stores in nearby areas. One commissioner said that if state legislation supersedes local rules the city would amend or repeal its ordinance to comply with state law.
During the second public comment period, Shelly Emerson urged the commission to ensure kratom products are not marketed like candy and that access is controlled at point-of-sale to reduce youth exposure. Margaret Eckert separately raised concerns about inconsistent trash pickup and broken glass left in yards; commissioners said they would follow up.
What happens next: the ordinance is scheduled for adoption on March 16, 2026; staff said the city attorney prepared the draft and staff will return it for final action.
