Springfield council rejects marijuana ordinance

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) - The Springfield City Council has repealed a citizen-driven ordinance that lowered punishments for small amounts of marijuana.

The council voted Monday night to repeal the ordinance, which reduced the penalty for possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana to a small fine, community service or counseling. It also prevented law enforcement officials from arresting people only for marijuana possession or sending such cases to state court.

The council followed city charter two weeks ago by adopting the marijuana petition but several members said at the time they wanted to repeal it. Those opposed to the ordinance said it violated state and federal laws.

Supporters of the petition said they would consider a lawsuit or another petition drive to force a public vote to overturn the council's action.