Idaho Falls residents invited to weigh in on proposed kratom ban at Thursday council meeting
Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) - Idaho Falls residents will have an opportunity Thursday night to share their thoughts on a proposed ban of kratom within city limits as city leaders continue debating the controversial substance.
The discussion comes after the Idaho Falls City Council heard official comments from local law enforcement and the Bonneville County Coroner about the potential risks of kratom—a plant-based product commonly available in smoke shops, convenience stores, and specialty shops.
Kratom is typically promoted as a natural remedy for pain, energy, and wellness. However, officials cautioned that the substance can act as a stimulant in small doses and produce opioid-like effects in larger amounts. It is currently an FDA-unregulated drug and legal in the state of Idaho.
At Monday’s work session, Bonneville County Coroner Shante Sanchez reported that her office has examined six kratom-related deaths in the past 18 months, most involving young adults. She urged city leaders to consider the public safety risks of allowing continued sales.
Bonneville County Sheriff Sam Hulse also raised concerns about accessibility, pointing out that Idaho does not currently regulate the age for kratom purchases. He mentioned that some products are sold near schools and that law enforcement has received reports of student use. Idaho Falls Police Chief Bryce Johnson also noted that enforcing a local ban could be difficult, as officers do not have a straightforward field test for kratom. Local law enforcement believes retailers within the city limits would comply with an adjusted market.
The proposed ban has been under consideration for several weeks and is just a small portion of the growing topic of conversation among city officials statewide. Last month, Idaho Falls city council members delayed a decision to collect more information and hear from experts, law enforcement, and the public before making a final call.
The issue is now set to return to the council at its regular Thursday evening meeting.
Residents who wish to comment on the proposed ban are invited to attend the meeting, which starts at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Idaho Falls City Hall, 680 Park Avenue.
Members of the public may speak during the comment period, with each speaker typically required to state their name and city of residence, and limited to three minutes.
Meeting agendas and additional details are available on the City of Idaho Falls website here.
It is not yet clear whether council members will make a final decision on the ban Thursday night, but the meeting will offer another chance for city leaders and residents to weigh the pros and cons of restricting kratom locally.
