New legislation being introduced looks to update Pennsylvania firearm law that prohibits medical marijuana users from owning a gun.
According to a release, state Senator Dan Laughlin (R-49) will introduce a bill seeking to amend the state’s Uniform Firearms Act to conform with the state’s legalization of medical marijuana.
The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Act was enacted in 2016 to legally treat individuals with specific medical conditions with marijuana.
However, some laws view cannabis use as unlawful. One in particular — Federal law 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(3) — prohibits firearms purchases and possession by anyone who uses marijuana or other controlled substances.
“My legislation will make sure a valid medical marijuana cardholder is no longer considered an unlawful marijuana user,” said state Sen. Laughlin. “Although marijuana remains illegal under federal law, we should be updating Pennsylvania’s laws to ensure valid medical marijuana cardholders are not denied their rights.”
Previously, Warren County District Attorney Robert Greene filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government challenging federal law that prohibits gun ownership by medical marijuana users.
Greene also announced he would not seek election, noting how he is in violation of the Commonwealth’s “draconian” cannabis laws and how some officials say Greene should lose his Second Amendment rights.
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