June 5, 2023 11:15p
(WGTD)----A proposal to lower the maximum fine for getting caught with a small amount of marijuana was approved by the Kenosha City Council Monday night on a vote of 10-7.
The measure lowers the maximum fine for possession of 28 grams or less of marijuana from $750 to $1, plus court costs. Those costs amount to around $60.
The change does not apply to juveniles, and only covers first offenses.
The measure’s authors say they’re taking their cue from the results of a recent referendum in Kenosha in which voters overwhelmingly supported legalizing recreational marijuana use.
Opponents argued that the approval of the ordinance change would send the wrong message.
The change won't take effect until Sept.
The passionate debate on the council floor and during a public hearing lasted nearly three hours.
The measure is comparable to others that have been approved by local officials in Wisconsin.
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