Marijuana activist have been pushing for the legalization of the use of the plant in the past decades. Although Washington and Colorado are the only states that have legalized marijuana or weed, 20 other states allow the use of weed for medical purposes.

According to Washington State Liquor Control Board website, to sell marijuana a retailer must buy a license to sell, which can cost up to $1000. And even if weed will be legalized, many employers will  still require drug tests for it. Places of retail will be set up and defined by several factors. For example, it is prohibited to be 1000 feet from any school, recreational center and library, among other public places.

The place shall not allow any minors to enter the store and there cannot be any advertising that indicates that weed is being sold at the store. This includes windows outside the store. In addition, customers cannot smoke inside the store. Non-Washington residents are allowed to purchase recreational marijuana but the product must remain in Washington.

It is important to remember that the state law of Washington does not overrule federal law. Therefore when leading with federal issues, a person can be found guilty for the possession of marijuana. In the 20 states where marijuana is only permitted for medical use, there are still certain guidelines to be followed by each state. According to the Medical marijuana website, which was updated last December, each state permits a different possession limit. For example, New Mexico allows up to six ounces of ready to use marijuana and a 16 plant limit, of which four can be mature and 12 must be immature.  The possession limit may vary as well as other characteristics.

Because Texas normally votes republican, the legalization of weed will most likely not occur any time soon in the state.