The United States Of America, Part Five. This is the story of how the American Republic developed from colonial beginnings in the 16th century, when the first European explorers arrived, until modern times.
Medical marijuana is now legal in 20 states and the District of Columbia. Of those states, Washington and Colorado have legalized marijuana for recreational use. Colorado's first retail marijuana stores opened Jan. 1 for sale to people 21 years and older. Under federal law, marijuana is still an illegal drug.
Marijuana is legal in three U.S. states for recreational use: Alaska, Colorado, and Washington. Medical marijuana is approved in over 20 U.S. states. But regardless of its legality, it is important to remember that marijuana carries with it certain medical risks. Know the risks before you decide to use it or not.