I'm trying out Branch (a discussion board of sorts) for the first time, and my friend suggested this topic, and a good topic it is. So, first off, what are your thoughts on this, especially from Washington state? Secondly, do you think the federal government will block this? (This goes without saying, but let's keep it civil!)

Welcome!

I'm from the Netherlands, and marijuana has been legal for years here.

The legalizing for persons over 18 had as a result that we had less drugs-criminality, less nuisance and a lot of drugs-toerists. So, good for the economy. (Although at january 1st

marijuana isn't for sale for non-Dutch anymore, sadly)

That's something I'm wondering and looking-forward to as well. Washington's tourism industry is only so-so, from what I've heard/seen. It's unfortunate because the state has many things to see, from the mountains and lakes to the cities. I think this might help bring in tourism dollars.

And then there is the savings in law enforcement, and the de-disenfranchising of minorities, of which the 'drug war' has claimed a seemingly unfair share of.