Ohio voters on Election Day rejected a measure that would have made it the first U.S. Midwestern state to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.

Issue 3, which would have added an amendment to the state constitution that legalizes both the personal and medical use of marijuana for those older than 21 years, was defeated by nearly a two-to-one margin, according to several news reports. Issue 3 would have granted exclusive rights for commercial marijuana growth and distribution to 10 facilities across the state. Those facilities are owned by investors in the legalization movement.

“At a time when too many families are being torn apart by drug abuse, Ohioans said no to easy access to drugs and instead chose a path that helps strengthen our families and communities,” said Gov. John Kasich in a press statement.

CADCA’s coalitions in Ohio worked on educating the public about the harms of the drug.

The states that have legalized the recreational usage of marijuana are Alaska, Colorado, Washington and Oregon, as well as the District of Columbia. About two dozen states allow its use for medical reasons.

Seven other states are expected to vote on recreational marijuana legalization next year.

VOIR ÉGALEMENT:

CADCA’s marijuana education online course