SANDPOINT — Mayor Jeremy Grimm is proposing a ban on selling kratom in city limits, which will come before the Sandpoint City Council for a public hearing and adoption on Wednesday evening. 

Grimm said he’s proposing the prohibition because of recent measures taken by the city of Kellogg and his own research about the substance. Grimm said that the products frequently lack proper labeling, dosage amounts and have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 

“The Idaho Legislature has been batting it around, but under Dillon’s Law, we have the ability to take action and address a local health problem,” Grimm said. “So why should we wait for the legislature when we can make a difference here for youth and residents?” 

Kratom itself is the product of leaves from the tropical tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. The product has varying effects on the user based on dosage, but can become highly addictive and result in severe psychotic symptoms, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.  

Grimm said he talked to a retailer in the city who sells kratom products, who did not have concerns about the potential prohibition. Grimm said an added concern for him was how the kratom was advertised, often being an active ingredient in holistic “energy boosting” products. 

Grimm’s proposal comes at a time when the issue of kratom has taken a national focus, with Utah enacting a statewide prohibition in early May. The Panhandle Health District also raised concerns about kratom products in February, issuing a districtwide warning for the drug. 

Despite the growing concerns, kratom remains legal for any resident over 18 years old to purchase in Idaho and unregulated at the federal level. 

Under the proposed ordinance, only the sale of kratom would be prohibited, not possession or use. Grimm said this was purposeful, and he hopes to reduce the exposure and availability of the product within city limits. 

“In considering this action, I have asked a simple question: whether it is appropriate for a substance with known risks and no regulatory oversight to be openly sold in our community,” Grimm wrote in his memo to the council. “I believe it is our responsibility to weigh the available information and act in a way that reflects a prudent approach to public health and safety.” 

Sandpoint is not the only city in North Idaho considering a ban on kratom, with the topic being discussed in Bonners Ferry at that city’s previous two council meetings.  

The Sandpoint City Council will consider the proposed ordinance for adoption at its May 20 meeting. As for all new ordinances, there will be a public hearing on the matter before the council discusses it. 

That May 20 meeting will take place at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. Residents can also attend virtually by registering before the meeting at sandpointidaho.gov/meetings.