BOARD REVIEWS NEW ORDINANCE

MORTON - Drivers may soon be subject to a fine if passengers are found to
be in possession of marijuana or other drug paraphernalia.

At its meeting Monday night, the Morton Village Board heard the first
reading of an ordinance that would fine drivers $75 for knowingly having
marijuana or illegal drug materials in the passenger areas of their vehicle.

Morton Police Chief Nick Graff said there is no state law to penalize
drivers if a passenger in their vehicle is found to be in possession of or
even using illegal drugs.

"We can't do anything to the driver," Graff said. This ordinance will allow
us to "at least write them a ticket."

Graff said the idea for the ordinance came from officials in the city of
Washington. Graff said the two municipalities often share ideas. He said
Washington recently passed a similar ordinance.

Graff said he is not aware of any incidents occurring in Morton that would
have been covered by the proposed ordinance. He said police simply want to
be proactive.

The ordinance will come before the council for a final reading and action
on July 15.