The idea of decriminalizing marijuana possession was up for its first Metro Council vote Tuesday night. While it did pass — on what is considered a procedural step — there are already hints of stronger opposition to come.
Several council members asked that the vote be recorded to show how each was siding. That’s typically reserved for final readings, and it put some officials in a tricky situation.
A few who wanted to allow the debate to continue worried about being seen as a marijuana supporter.
“I think it’s completely unfair to shut off debate and kill this bill before we’ve ever had it before any committee, any conversation about it whatsoever,” co-sponsor Russ Pulley said. “Let’s at least move it through the process and see what we can come up with.”
Most agreed with him — and the marijuana bill moved to the next step by a vote of 32 to 4. The “no” votes, at this stage, were council members Steve Glover, Holly Huezo, Bill Pridemore and Doug Pardue. Councilwoman Karen Johnson abstained.
Before the next vote, amendments are expected, in part because Metro police are opposed to its current wording.
“This legislation is not in its final form,” Councilman Dave Rosenberg said. “We’re going to be working with Metro Police and other concerned parties to make sure it’s something that everyone can live with.”
As it is now, the bill proposes a $50 ticket and mandatory community service for possession of up to a half-ounce. Law enforcement has been concerned that the ordinance would not give officers the discretion to make an arrest if the situation called for it.
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