The Independence City Council will consider an ordinance later this month that would ban recreational marijuana use in public places.
The measure is scheduled for a second reading and possible vote at the council’s Jan. 20 meeting at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
The proposal would amend city code to make it illegal to consume marijuana in any area accessible to the public, including parks, sidewalks, streets and parking lots, even though recreational marijuana is legal in Missouri.
Adults 21 and older would still be allowed to use marijuana on private property.
The ordinance would also establish penalties.
Violations such as growing plants visible from public areas or not keeping them locked could result in fines of up to $250. Repeat violations involving excessive possession or improper transfers could lead to fines of up to $500.
People under 21 could face fines, drug education or counseling for marijuana-related offenses.
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