City leaders in Independence approved an ordinance formally banning public marijuana smoking, an issue council members say has lacked clear enforcement at the local level.
The ordinance makes smoking marijuana unlawful in public spaces across Independence.
The proposal included an amendment before final consideration.
“It’s going to change it from consuming to smoking, and it’s also going to change the penalty phase to mirror state statute, which is $100 for the first offense,” said Councilmember Brice Smith before the meeting.
Public marijuana smoking is already banned statewide, but until now, Independence did not have a specific city ordinance spelling out how police could address the issue locally.
City leaders said the change would give officers a clear legal reference when responding to complaints, particularly near businesses or other public areas.
“At least it gives the officers a, you know, if they walk into a business and they see somebody smoking marijuana and they smell it, at least, they can put a stop to it,” Smith said.
Residents following the discussion said they support enforcement, but hope officers are given discretion when handling violations.
“It’d be really nice if they actually give them the option. And it’s not like, ‘Hey, we’re just going to take you to jail,’” said Kyle Wade, who lives in Independence. “Like, ‘Hey, we could talk about this. We can have a conversation or dialog like we’re having, you know, about it.’ And maybe people see it the way I do. Maybe people see it the other way, you know what I mean?”
The ordinance remains under consideration as the City Council continues its discussion.
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