Residents of Portland, Maine, To Vote on Decriminalizing Marijuana

Politicians are nervous, as usual

The City Council voted 5-1 Monday night, with Councilor John Coyne opposed, to send the measure to voters, rather than simply adopt a citizen-initiated ordinance that was endorsed by more than 2,500 residents.

Marijuana is illegal under federal law. State law allows people to use medicinal marijuana for medical purposes if recommended by a doctor.