Recreational Marijuana Law Takes Effect In Massachusetts

BOSTON (AP) — It is now legal in Massachusetts for adults to possess, grow and use limited amounts of recreational marijuana.

While the voter-approved law took effect Thursday, it will be at least another year before the state issues retail licenses to sell the drug. For now, that leaves recreational users with little choice but to buy it from illegal dealers.

Marijuana advocates say they're happy to see the law take effect, but worried that lawmakers and Republican Gov. Charlie Baker will try to change it.

Baker says the wishes of voters will be respected, but adds that it's appropriate to examine issues such as the potency of marijuana products and the location of pot shops.

Massachusetts is the first eastern state where recreational marijuana is legal.

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]