The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reevaluating the federal prohibition on firearm possession for individuals who use marijuana. This reconsideration comes in light of increased legalization efforts and changing public sentiment toward cannabis use across various states.
Under the Gun Control Act, federal law currently restricts firearm possession for specific groups, including felons, undocumented migrants, fugitives, individuals dishonorably discharged from the military, and those deemed mentally ill. However, the law also extends to marijuana users, which has drawn scrutiny as more states move toward legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes.
As of 2025, 23 states and Washington, D.C. have enacted laws allowing recreational cannabis use, while 38 states permit medical use. This shift raises questions about the alignment of federal firearms regulations with state-level cannabis laws. Advocates argue that prohibiting gun ownership for marijuana users is inconsistent, especially as many states have legalized cannabis use without significant increases in crime or public safety issues.
The DOJ’s potential reconsideration could lead to significant changes in the legal landscape for cannabis users. If the ban is lifted, it would allow millions of Americans who legally use marijuana to have the same rights to gun ownership as other citizens. This change could also reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis users, further normalizing its use in society.
Industry experts expect that a change in policy could influence both cannabis and firearms markets. Gun retailers may see an increase in clientele among cannabis users, and advocates for gun rights and cannabis legalization may unite to push for broader reforms.
This discussion is part of a larger national conversation about the intersections of drug policy and gun rights, particularly as Congress and various state legislatures examine gun violence and public safety measures. As the DOJ reviews these regulations, the outcome will have implications not only for individual rights but also for broader legislative efforts concerning cannabis and firearms in the United States.
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