WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Voters in Wichita will decide whether to approve a ballot that seeks to ease penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana. The issue is on the ballot for Tuesday's municipal election in Wichita. The proposed ordinance does not legalize marijuana. It makes first-time possession a criminal infraction with a $50 fine. Under state law, it is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $2,500 and a year in jail. Opponents contend the city has no legal authority to adopt an ordinance that conflicts with state law. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has said he would sue the city if it passes. Supporters say people should vote for the measure anyway to send the Legislature a message.
