Wis. Senate approves tougher pot sanctions

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The state Senate has approved a Republican bill that would expand the authority of cities and villages to enforce marijuana ordinances after district attorneys decline to prosecute.

Under current state law, municipalities can enact and enforce ordinances prohibiting possession of 25 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic marijuana. But they can't prosecute those who possess more than 25 grams or for second-offense possession of any amount.

The bill passed on a bipartisan 24-9 vote Tuesday would allow for municipalities to enact ordinances prohibiting possession of any amount of marijuana and give them the authority to prosecute second offenses.

The measure would give local governments more options for municipal prosecution if district attorneys decline to pursue criminal charges.

The bill now goes to the state Assembly.