Kratom ban enacted in Othello

City cites youth safety, FDA warnings in unanimous vote

OTHELLO — The Othello City Council voted unanimously Monday to ban the sale, advertisement and distribution of kratom and 7‑hydroxymitragynine products, making the community one of the first in the Columbia Basin to enact a full prohibition. The ordinance takes effect on Friday. The decision followed weeks of discussion, research by city staff and testimony from residents and advocates. The discussion began at the April 13 council meeting with Police Chief Aaron Garza letting council know the products are being sold locally in gummies, teas and shots without age restrictions. Mayor Ken Johnson said the issue first came to his attention when he learned an Othello resident had unknowingly consumed kratom and experienced serious effects.