MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Memphis City Council has approved an ordinance that allows police to reduce the penalty for people who possess a small amount of marijuana.

After lengthy discussion from people on both sides of the issue the
council voted 7-6 to approve.

The measure says a police officer who comes across someone in possession
of a half-ounce or less of marijuana has the option of issuing a civil
citation for a $50 fine or community service, rather than arresting the
individual.

The Nashville Metropolitan Council approved a similar ordinance Sept. 20.