While the country was electing a commander-in-chief for the next four years, Colorado and Washington had something extra on their ballots - legalization of marijuana.
Last night, Colorado and Washington became the first U.S. states to legalize the possession and sale of marijuana for recreational use.
In the states, the use of marijuana is now legal for person at least 21 years old and is taxed in a manner similar to alcohol.
It is now legal to possess, use, display, purchase and transport marijuana accessories or one once or less of marijuana. Colorado residents can now grow up to six marijuana plants per person and consume marijuana freely. Cannabis can be legally sold and taxed at state-licensed stores.
Governor of Colorado John Hickenlooper released statement last night following the passage of Amendment 64.
"The voters have spoken and we have to respect their will," Hickenlooper said. "This will be a complicated process, but we intend to follow through. That said, federal law still says marijuana is an illegal drug so don't break out the Cheetos or gold fish too quickly."
"Colorado will no longer have laws that steer people toward using alcohol, and adults will be free to use marijuana instead if that is what they prefer. And we will be better off as a society because of it," Mason Tvert, co-director of the Colorado pro-legalization campaign, said.
The U.S. Department of Justice said they are reviewing the ballot initiatives.
According to a report, the new law will take effect on Dec. 6, or upon certification of the vote by Gov. Hickenlooper, whichever comes first.
"Thank you to each and every one of you who donated to the effort to end Colorado's marijuana prohibition," the Marijuana Policy Project said. "This historic accomplishment was the direct result of donations, volunteers, paid staff, and countless individuals who reached out to family and friends in Colorado about the need to reform failed prohibitionist policies."
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