Medical Lake council adopts ordinance restricting sale of kratom products

Medical Lake’s City Council voted May 5 to adopt Ordinance 1146, banning the sale of kratom products within the city. The city attorney read the ordinance title during the meeting’s second reading, and council members discussed timing and compliance steps before a voice vote carried the measure.

Mayor (chair) and councilors said the ordinance will take effect 30 days after adoption under the standard effective-date practice discussed by the attorney. The mayor told the council the administration intends to post notice in the local paper, publish on social media and send letters to known retailers to provide a cordial compliance period for businesses.

Council member Spears said she researched the topic and welcomed the action, noting national coverage had highlighted public‑health concerns: “Last weekend was actually on Kratom products…and I’m very happy that we are doing this,” she said during the meeting. The mayor added that the policy signals the council’s intent to “protect our kids” and to stay responsive to evolving synthetic and herbal products that may pose new risks.

The ordinance was adopted on second reading by voice vote with council members present supporting the measure. The council agreed to a notice period and to coordinate enforcement and employer/policy updates, including adding kratom to relevant personnel testing schedules where appropriate.

What’s next: The ordinance will be published and posted as required; staff said they will notify local retailers and outline expectations during the 30‑day effective window.