Legislative Wrap-Up: Marijuana Penalties, Religious Daycares, and Execution Methods
State lawmakers debated a controversial measure this week that would ease the penalties for marijuana possession. Currently, a person arrested for possession of marijuana can be convicted of a felony if they have one prior marijuana possession conviction, regardless of the amount. Sen. Dick Brewbaker proposed a bill that would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana punishable by a fine instead of jail time. An offense would be a step below a misdemeanor, and carry a fine of up to $250.
And for prison inmates on death row, lawmakers discussed another possible alternative to execution — nitrogen gas. But first, Alabama Public Television’s Don Dailey talks with WBHM’s Gigi Douban about a measure sponsored by Rep. Pebblin Warren that aims to make faith-based child care centers safer. The bill would regulate religious day cares, even as they remain exempt from state licensing requirements.
Last year, we talked with Reveal reporter Amy Julia Harris, who investigated incidents of abuse and neglect at Alabama’s religious child care centers.
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In Birmingham, Black men’s groups work to save young men from the cycle of gun violence
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Former Brazilian president indicted over alleged coup plot
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SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who took aim at crypto industry, to step down in January
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Russia launched an experimental ballistic missile at Ukraine, the U.S. says
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