Advocates for marijuana reform are preparing for a showdown with the federal government following historic victories in Colorado and Washington. Voters in both states approved measures legalizing marijuana for recreational use, the first time ever that has been achieved by popular vote. The Justice Department is reviewing the ballot measures and is widely expected to challenge their implementation. On Wednesday, marijuana reform activists in Colorado and Washington said they hope to provide a model for the rest of the country.
Brian Vicente: “Colorado rejected the failed policy of marijuana prohibition and made a positive step forward towards regulating this product, taking it off the streets, putting it behind the counter and taxing it. We really feel that Colorado can be a model for the nation in how to sensibly regulate marijuana policy.”
Alison Holcomb: “Today, the state of Washington looked at 75 years of a national marijuana prohibition and said it is time for a new approach.”