Initiative to Legalize Marijuana in California Gains Support

California voters may get another chance to decide if marijuana will be legal.

The secretary of state gave legalization advocates permission Friday to collect signatures needed to put the marijuana legalization initiative on the November ballot -- an idea voters rejected in 2010.

Shona Gochenaur of Axis of Love said unlike Prop. 19, the new initiative has widespread industry support. And as voters watch a booming industry in Colorado generate millions in tax revenue, views are changing.

MORE: Colorado Lights Up: Pot Industry Open for Business

California's legislative analyst said legalization will save $100 million annually in law enforcement costs and generate a few hundred million dollars in tax revenue.

But there is still the question of federal law. The drug enforcement agency said marijuana is illegal.

"Going down the path to legalization in this country is reckless and irresponsible," said James Capra, who serves as chief of operations for the DEA.

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