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.
In four states, Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and Washington, the sale and possession of cannabis is legal for both medical and non-medical use; and Washington DC has legalized personal use but not commercial sale.