Medical marijuana law goes into effect

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Voters here in Massachusetts voted to legalize medical marijuana back in November, and that law goes into effect Tuesday.

But some communities are already drafting bylaws to ban marijuana dispensaries in their towns. 

Some communities, including Wakefield and Reading, have rushed to amend their zoning bylaws to ban marijuana dispensaries in their towns.

They are concerned the new law will lead to abuse of the drug.

Although the state Dept of Public Health says they'll issue regulations to avoid any abuses some people told 22News cities here in western Mass should also consider similar bylaws.

“They should think about it because that's wrong for young kids. Now kids will go smoke because they can get it. For me, that's a big mistake,” Kenneth Rodriguez.

The state Department of Public Health has until May 1 to issue regulations.

We also spoke with many people who say they don't think communities should ban dispensaries.

We'll have details on 22News at 11.