Marijuana makes strides toward legalization as 4/20 celebrated

17 photos

Today, April 20 or 4/20, is embraced by marijuana smokers nationwide as a celebration of cannabis culture. By and large, observance has remained underground given pot’s classification as an illegal substance by federal law. This year, though, things have changed, with voters in Colorado and Washington deciding in 2012 to decriminalize marijuana within state borders.

In Maryland, lawmakers opted not to decriminalize pot, but the General Assembly authorized a medical marijuana program. In recent years, Baltimore prosecutors have been easing up on marijuana possession penalties. (For contrast’s sake, D.C.’s first medical marijuana dispensary is set to open this month.)