TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - Councilwoman Nikki Lee is advocating for a new ordinance in Tucson that would classify public drug use as a misdemeanor.

The proposal was discussed during a City Council study session on Tuesday. Its aim is to direct offenders towards treatment instead of jail time.

Lee stated that Tucson police report 65% of felony drug cases are not prosecuted.

Mayor Regina Romero expressed support for the initiative.

"This is part of creating tools for the City of Tucson and our police officers and our departments to offer additional services to the people that are really going through crisis themselves," Romero said.

Council members plan to revisit the proposal in 60 days before making a final decision.

See Full Page