Black Caucus supports marijuana reform

Despite Gov. Bill Haslam's opposition, the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators announced Monday its full support for marijuana decriminalization measures currently before the Metro Council and the Memphis City Council. Both councils are set to take crucial votes on the ordinances next week.

The Metro ordinance, which passed on first reading, would lessen the penalty for possessing or exchanging a half-ounce of marijuana to a $50 civil penalty or 10 hours of community service. Current state law considers the misdemeanor offense punishable by up to a year in jail or a $2,500 fine.Â