VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – BC’s reputation as a pot-friendly province may be outdone by voters south of the border during Tuesday’s elections.

Marijuana activists here are keeping a close eye on what’s about to happen in a few American states as people in Washington State, Oregon and Colorado will vote on whether to legalize marijuana.

Vancouver pot activist Jodie Emery says a ‘yes’ vote would send a message to the Harper government.

“Canada should be watching closely to see how a progressive model can benefit taxpayers and deprive gangs of money,” she explains.

Emery also expects any state that legalizes marijuana would see a boost in tourism. “You would probably see a fair number of people going down to experiment and see what that’s like.”

Tourism Minister Pat Bell says B-C is paying attention to the marijuana ballot initiative — and another in Washington State that could see the legalization of gay marriage.

“We’re watching with interest in terms of how they might impact British Columbia,” says Tourism Minister Pat Bell. “But even if the various initiatives pass, of course, there’s further due diligence that needs to be done in terms of determining whether they’re legal or not.”

Votes to legalize marijuana are also being held in Colorado and Oregon. Pundits say legalization may very well pass in Washington State, and perhaps in Colorado.

Bell adds the province is monitoring the vote, as well as another that could see gay marriage legalized just over the border.

“We’ve got a very proud history in British Columbia around gay tourism. It is a key element of our tourism industry, so if same-sex marriage were provided in Washington State, certainly it could be a challenge for us,” says Bell.