Medical Marijuana-Your Firearm Conceal Carry Permit

When a person makes the decision to become a legal medical marijuana consumer, there are likely plenty of factors involved in their thought process: how cannabis can help relieve specific symptoms, where to go to purchase cannabis products, and whether they have one of the qualifying conditions for a medical marijuana card. However, it’s more than likely that there’s one thought that doesn’t cross their mind: the fact that according to federal law, they’ll be giving up their right to a conceal carry permit after becoming an MMJ patient.

Medical Marijuana and Guns: What Federal Law Says

Despite being legalized in a growing number of U.S. states, medicinal cannabis is technically still considered illegal under federal law. While the government has taken the stance that they aren’t planning to put time or effort into pursuing individual cannabis users, the fact remains that a federal officer is still permitted to arrest you for possession or use or marijuana – even if you have a Florida medical marijuana card.

For the majority of Florida MMJ patients, this technicality isn’t something they’ll never need to worry about. However, federal marijuana laws become a larger issue when it comes to a patient’s right to bear arms. Every time a person purchases a new firearm, a Firearms Transaction Record must be completed and filed. One of the questions on this form addresses unlawful use of controlled substances, stating that marijuana is still considered “unlawful” regardless of your state’s laws. As a result, even if you live in a medical marijuana state, you are legally obligated to mark “yes” on this form – which will earn you a near-guaranteed denial.

Florida’s Legal “Loophole”

While it might seem like you’ll be stuck choosing between gun ownership and your medical cannabis, the Florida law actually has a unique loophole that currently makes it possible to have the best of both worlds. While you are still required to fill out a Firearms Transaction Record when purchasing brand-new firearms from a gun store, Florida law does not require the form when you’re buying used guns from another gun owner – regardless of whether you’re an MMJ card holder.

Additionally, there is no Florida law that states you can’t own or use guns (and ammunition) as a legal cannabis consumer. This means that if you already have a firearm or concealed weapons permit, you’re permitted to keep them as long as you follow all other laws. If you’re adhering to medical cannabis regulations and don’t have a criminal history, there’s no reason you should have any issue applying for your conceal carry permit. For Florida cannabis patients, understanding these rights makes a world of difference.

Learn How to Obtain a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida Without Sacrificing Your Right to Bear Arms

For existing and prospective MMJ patients in Florida, understanding the overlap between medical marijuana and gun laws can be confusing. But at Express Medical Marijuana Clinic, our professional team has the knowledge and resources to help. At our Florida medical marijuana clinic, we can help you get your medical marijuana card without losing out on your conceal carry permit. Whether you’re already a gun owner or simply want to make sure you preserve your right to own guns in the future, Express Medical Marijuana Clinic will guide you through the process.

Visit your nearest Express Medical Marijuana Clinic to discover why we’re one of the top-rated medical marijuana clinics in Florida and learn more about how we can help you tackle the medical cannabis application process with confidence.