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.
The job market remains incredibly healthy — but the tariff storm could upend things
Employers added 228,000 jobs in March, showcasing a solid labor market. But uncertainty over tariffs and tepid consumer spending may weigh on job growth in the months to come.
Trade war escalates as China hits back with 34% tariffs on all U.S. goods
Analysts say the escalating trade tensions between the U.S and China will make a near-term deal to end the trade war "highly unlikely".
Gambling proposal likely dead for the legislative session
If there's any topic that hovers over the Alabama legislature, never quite going away, it's gambling. The perennial issue has always fallen short and it looks like it will do so again this year.
The unique genetic change that turned horses into athletic powerhouses
A new study suggests genetic changes allow horses to produce more energy, while minimizing the toll the energy takes on cells.
Word of the Week: The swashbuckling origins and evolution of ‘filibuster’
Sen. Cory Booker's record-breaking Senate speech wasn't technically a filibuster, but it still put the word in focus. Here's what to know about its history, from the swashbuckling to the stonewalling.
A ‘beacon’ or a ‘roulette’? Chinese America watchers see opportunities and pitfalls
Some of China's America watchers see opportunities for their country in the United States' retreat from international institutions. Others see distractions and pitfalls.
