Watch CBS News

3 Mich. Cities Consider Easing Marijuana Laws

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Voters in three Michigan cities have a chance to give some legal protection to recreational marijuana users.

An item on Tuesday's ballots in Ferndale, Jackson and Lansing would allow citizens at least 21-years-old to possess an ounce or less of marijuana on private property.

But even if voters approve, it still wouldn't offer complete protection. State law still bars marijuana use and possession unless it's medical marijuana.

In 2012, voters in several Michigan cities backed local ballot issues to decriminalize marijuana in some cases.

Grand Rapids voters chose to make possession of small amounts of marijuana a civil violation instead of a misdemeanor crime. And in Ypsilanti, 74 percent of voters approved a proposal to redirect police efforts away from enforcing laws against marijuana -- making it their lowest priority.

TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.