Preserving second amendment rights for medical marijuana patients
Impact
If enacted, this legislation would amend existing laws in Massachusetts that currently may inhibit medical marijuana patients from exercising their Second Amendment rights. By preventing denials for firearm licenses based on medical marijuana status, the bill acknowledges the rights of patients and addresses concerns about the potential discrimination they face when attempting to obtain firearms for self-defense or other lawful purposes.
Summary
Senate Bill S1514, titled 'An Act preserving second amendment rights for medical marijuana patients', aims to ensure that individuals who hold a medical marijuana license in Massachusetts can still obtain licenses to carry firearms or firearm identification cards. The bill introduces specific language to amend Chapter 140 of the General Laws, stating that the state and its licensing bodies cannot deny a qualified applicant based solely on their status as a medical marijuana patient.
Contention
Discussions surrounding S1514 could center on the implications of intertwining firearm rights with medical marijuana use. Proponents argue that lawful medical marijuana users should not have their Second Amendment rights infringed upon while critics may express concern about the relationship between drug use and firearm possession. The bill's passage could spark debates on public safety and the lawful exercise of rights established by both state and federal laws.
Replaced by
Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to firearms