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.
Opinion: Remembering Ai, a remarkably intelligent chimpanzee
We remember Ai, a highly intelligent chimpanzee who lived at the Primate Research Institute of Kyoto University for most of her life, except the time she escaped and walked around campus.
The near death — and last-minute reprieve — of a trial for an HIV vaccine
A trial was about to launch for a vaccine that would ward off the HIV virus. It would be an incredible breakthrough. Then it looked as if it would be over before it started.
Bessemer data center developer to request rezoning for additional 900 acres
The city’s attorney informed council members of the request on Tuesday, warning that there may be media scrutiny.
Is RFK Jr.’s Administration for a Healthy America — AHA — in the works or not?
The Administration for a Healthy America is RFK Jr.'s plan to tackle chronic disease, addiction and other persistent problems. But so far it's not being set up like previous new agencies.
They quit their day jobs to bet on current events. A look inside the prediction market mania
Prediction market apps are thriving in Trump's second term, with traders betting on migrant deportations to election outcomes. A community of young, mostly male and very online traders are driving the industry's bonanza.
Major plumbing headache haunts $13 billion U.S. carrier off the coast of Venezuela
The crew of USS Ford is struggling to handle sewage problems on board the Navy's newest carrier.
