Recentlly, measures to legalize marijuana have been introduced in Washington and New Hampshire. Earlier this year simillar measures were introduced in California and Massachusetts. Other states are considering proposals which would either legalize medical marijuana or decriminalize its possession. In California, sufficent signatures have been raised to place legalization on the ballot.

The Washington bill would mandate the sale of marijuana in the 160 state run liquor stores and it place a 15 per cent tax on the sales. In Washington, as in other states, measures to reform marijuana laws are largely motivated by the need to find new sources for taxes.

According to Allen St. Pierre, executive director or NORML, a marijuana advocacy organization, fourteen states legalize medical marijuana and thirteen states passed decriminalization statutes.

While there is increased support for reform of marijuana laws it is unlikely that marijuana will be legalized in any state this year. There is still much opposition. Ron Brooks, president of the National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, for example, points out that legalization may lead to more automobile accidents.

But the stimulus for reform is growing and we are likely to see major change over the next several years. After all fifteen years ago medical marijuana was unheard of.