Voters weigh red-hot social, economic issues

— -- Voters in several states approved ballot measures Tuesday that will legalize marijuana and use gambling to fund education.

Massachusetts voters approved decriminalizing possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana. Under the new law, taking effect in 30 days, those caught must give up the marijuana and pay a $100 fine but won't face criminal penalties. Eleven other states have similar laws.

Michigan became the 13th state to allow residents — with a doctor's approval — to use marijuana to treat pain caused by cancer and other diseases.

"This is potentially a sea change," says Bruce Mirken, spokesman of the Marijuana Policy Project, a group working to legalize the drug. He says the dual victories come despite eight years of tough federal laws against marijuana. "Voters have said, loudly, 'Enough.' "

The marijuana initiatives were among 153 measures on ballots in 36 states, 59 resulting from citizen petitions covering a range of economic and social issues.

In Arkansas, voters approved a ban on unmarried couples adopting or being foster parents.

Gambling, which gives states revenue without directly increasing taxes, was on the ballot in eight states. Maryland voters approved a measure that legalizes slot machines, dedicating half the revenue from up to 15,000 machines for public schools. Ohioans approved a state lottery to fund college scholarships.

"Voters think gambling is an acceptable way to pay for education," says Jennie Drage Bowser, who has been analyzing ballot measures for more than a decade at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Ohio voters, however, also rejected a measure approving a new casino. And in Massachusetts, citizens approved a ban on commercial dog racing.

Despite a weak economy, voters didn't necessarily embrace lower taxes. In Massachusetts, they rejected a measure to repeal the personal income tax, which supplies 40% of the state's budget. Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick warned it would force deep cuts in services statewide.