Supervisors set first reading of kratom restrictions, schedule second reading for June 24

The Orange County Board of Supervisors on June 10 set a first reading and scheduled a second reading and possible adoption for June 24 of an ordinance that would add Division 20 to Title 3 of the county code to restrict sale, distribution and packaging of kratom products in unincorporated areas.

Clerk staff read the ordinance summary, which says the measure would ban kratom products that contain high levels of a concentrated compound commonly referred to in the meeting as 7‑OH, prohibit sale to anyone under 21 and bar labeling attractive to children. The clerk set the second reading and adoption for 09:30 a.m. on June 24.

Ryan Sherman of the California Narcotic Officers Association told the board the group strongly supports the ordinance and that state legislation has been pursued but not yet enacted. "We are in strong support of this proposed ordinance," Sherman said, and offered to answer questions.

The supervisor bringing the item described concerns about concentrated synthetic 7‑OH — which staff and speakers characterized as far more potent than morphine — and said the ordinance is designed to restrict high‑risk products, limit youth access and prevent child‑appealing packaging. Colleagues voiced support and the motion to move the item to a second reading carried without objection.

What happens next: The board set the second reading and adoption for its June 24 meeting, when members will take a final vote if the ordinance is ready for adoption.

Attribution note: Quotes and statements in this story are drawn from speakers who identified themselves on the record during the hearing.