Washington voters legalize marijuana

(Associated Press) Washington voters legalized recreational pot use on Tuesday, setting up a showdown with a federal government that backs the drug’s prohibition.

Initiative 502 sets up a system of state-licensed marijuana growers, processors and retail stores, where adults over 21 can buy up to an ounce. It also establishes a standard blood test limit for driving under the influence.

“Today the state of Washington looked at 70 years of marijuana prohibition and said it’s time for a new approach,” said Alison Holcomb, campaign manager for the initiative.