By the end of today, Massachusetts will most likely become the 18th state in the US with medical marijuana laws. Question 3 – an initiative to legalize MMJ – holds a solid lead in the latest polls , and local advocates are already preparing to celebrate. The East Coast is quickly becoming a stronghold for the medical marijuana industry, with Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Vermont and Washington D.C. all hoping to open dispensaries soon. Adding Massachusetts to the mix will strengthen the region’s position.