The Department of Justice Pledges Non-Interference in Washington’s Voter approved Law Upholding Adult Marijuana (Pot/ Weed/ Cannabis) Use US Department of Justice Washington September 3, 2013 On Thursday 29th August 2013, the department made a declaration that it would not contest Washington’s populace decision to legalize marijuana use for recreational purposes. James Cole the deputy attorney general gave U.S attorneys a memorandum that clearly indicated the shift in the federal government’s war on harmful drugs and substances.