top of page
Search

Can Marijuana Users Legally Own Guns? The Supreme Court Is Set to Decide

  • Isabella Romo
  • 5 days ago
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

ree

Don’t miss important updates about Iowa’s marijuana program. Subscribe to our newsletter and get the latest straight to your email!


If you’re a medical marijuana patient in Iowa, it’s important to know how federal and state laws affect firearm ownership. While Iowa allows medical marijuana use for qualifying patients, according to federal law, medical marijuana patients cannot legally own or purchase firearms.


The U.S. Supreme Court is currently reviewing a case that could clarify aspects of this issue nationwide, making it an important development to watch, even though federal restrictions still apply for now.


Legal Reality for Iowa Medical Marijuana Patients

Iowa’s Medical Cannabidiol Program permits patients to use marijuana for qualifying medical conditions. However, federal law, under the Gun Control Act, prohibits anyone who is an “unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” from owning or purchasing firearms. Since marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, medical marijuana patients are considered unlawful users, regardless of state legality.


This means that, in Iowa:

  • Existing marijuana patients cannot buy firearms from federally licensed dealers.

  • Owning firearms while using medical marijuana is considered a federal offense.

  • Misrepresenting your marijuana use on federal firearm forms can result in criminal charges.


State law does not protect medical marijuana patients from federal firearm restrictions. Even if your marijuana use is fully legal under Iowa law, owning or purchasing guns puts you at risk under federal law.


Supreme Court Involvement

Recently, the Supreme Court has agreed to review a case, United States v. Hemani, which challenges whether federal restrictions on gun ownership for marijuana users violate the Second Amendment. The case involves a person who regularly used marijuana and was charged with illegal firearm possession.


While the Court’s ruling could potentially change how federal law is applied nationwide, medical marijuana patients nationwide remain prohibited from purchasing firearms until any change occurs. The decision will clarify federal enforcement but does not provide immediate exceptions for patients.


Key Considerations for Iowa Patients

  • Firearm Purchases Denied: Medical marijuana patients are ineligible to purchase firearms from federally licensed dealers.

  • Risk of Prosecution: Providing false information on firearm forms is a federal crime and can result in fines or imprisonment.

  • Permit Issues: Concealed carry permits or existing firearm rights may be affected if federal authorities determine you are a prohibited person.

  • No Legal Loopholes: Iowa law does not override federal firearm restrictions.


What This Means for You

Medical marijuana patients in Iowa need to understand that purchasing a firearm carries serious federal risks. While the Supreme Court case could influence how these laws are enforced in the future, there is currently no legal way for medical marijuana patients to own or buy guns in Iowa.


If you are a patient considering medical marijuana use or already hold a medical marijuana card, it’s critical to weigh the impact on your firearm rights and consult legal professionals for additional guidance.


Staying Informed

The legal landscape around marijuana use and gun ownership continues to evolve. The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision may provide clarity on federal restrictions, but until then, Iowa medical marijuana patients must comply with current laws. Staying informed about legal developments and understanding federal and state rules is essential to avoid serious legal consequences.


Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We are now seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa!


Don’t wait to get the relief you deserve! Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors via telemedicine! 



Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.


Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

 

If you have any questions, simply give us a call at 866-443-1122, send us an email at info@iowamarijuanacard.com, or schedule a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!


For more blogs like this, plus patient resources and state updates, subscribe to our newsletter!

 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page