OLYMPIA, WA – Washington state’s Senate Labor and Commerce Committee held a public hearing on January 26, 2026, for Senate Bill 6196, proposing a steep 95% excise tax on kratom alongside strict licensing rules.
Kratom, a tropical tree leaf sold as powder in smoke shops, offers stimulant effects at low doses and sedative ones at high doses, per the DEA. Not federally controlled, it faces sales regulations via Kratom Consumer Protection Acts in several states.
The bill would task the Liquor and Cannabis Board with overseeing distribution and retail licenses, mirroring a recent 95% nicotine tax. Tony Sermanti of the American Kratom Association opposed it, favoring 21+ age limits and labeling but criticizing felony charges, record-keeping mandates, and seizures for minor errors.
Tax revenue would fund youth prevention against kratom and nicotine abuse; if passed, it starts January 2027. Read the full story at MyBellinghamNow.com.
