Massachusetts the first state in eastern U.S. to legalize recreational marijuana

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Election 2016: Get updates on the nine states with marijuana ballot measures

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BOSTON — Voters have approved a ballot measure making Massachusetts the first state in the eastern U.S. to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.

Tuesday’s approval marks a major national victory for proponents of legalized marijuana. Currently, using the drug recreationally is legal only in Colorado, Washington, Oregon and Alaska.

The statewide referendum passed despite opposition from top elected…