Minnesota House Bill HF657

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/23/23

Caption

Firearms; providing that a person may not be denied right to purchase, own, posses, or carry a firearm solely on the basis that the person is enrolled as a patient in the medical cannabis registry.

Impact

If enacted, HF657 would significantly alter the relationship between medical cannabis use and firearm ownership in Minnesota. The proposed amendments to Minnesota Statutes will prevent state and local agencies from discriminating against individuals based on their enrollment in the medical cannabis program when considering their eligibility for firearm purchases and ownership. This is expected to have a broad impact on many individuals who are part of the medical cannabis registry, affirming their rights under the law while also ensuring public safety considerations remain intact.

Summary

House File 657 seeks to amend existing Minnesota statutes regarding firearms possession for individuals enrolled in the medical cannabis registry. The bill establishes that a qualifying patient, who is defined as someone enrolled in the medical cannabis program, cannot be denied the right to purchase, own, possess, or carry a firearm solely based on their status as a medical cannabis user. This change aims to clarify that participation in the medical cannabis program does not inherently restrict an individual's firearm rights, addressing concerns raised by patients who wish to maintain their Second Amendment rights while also accessing medical cannabis treatment.

Contention

Opponents of the bill may voice concerns regarding potential public safety risks, citing that allowing individuals who may be under the influence of cannabis to access firearms could lead to dangerous situations. Proponents argue that responsible cannabis users should not be penalized by losing their rights to firearm possession. The bill seeks to clarify that the use of medical cannabis does not equate to being an unlawful user of controlled substances in the context of gun ownership, thereby emphasizing personal liberties and rights in the face of evolving cannabis legislation.