The word "legalization" was front and center in the minds of marijuana activists and lawmakers this year. Uruguay and Portland, Maine both legalized it, and Colorado and Washington prepared for regulated recreational sales in 2014.
One hundred pot shops catering to recreational users are set to open in Denver on and around Jan. 1. Another 36 will be located around the state. In addition, 212 licenses have been granted for cultivation, product and testing facilities.
Despite protestations from the U.N., Uruguay Pres. Jose Mujica signed into law legislation that allows the South American country to regulate the cultivation and sale of marijuana on Monday.
Philadelphia marijuana activist N.A. Poe walked out of federal court Dec. 13 with a big smile on his face. "Today is a victory for free speech," he proclaimed after being sentenced on three charges he's faced since May.
The third smallest country in South America has become the first to legalize marijuana, not only on the continent but in the world.
