The Supreme Court ruled on June 18, 2026, against a federal ban prohibiting gun ownership for individuals who use marijuana. The unanimous decision favored Ali Danial Hemani, a Texas resident, who argued that the law infringes on his Second Amendment rights. Justice Neil Gorsuch stated that the ruling limits the government's authority to restrict gun ownership from drug users who are not deemed dangerous. Hemani was not charged with any crimes related to his gun ownership.
The ruling is seen as a setback for the Trump administration, which defended the 1968 law that aimed to prevent gun access to dangerous individuals. Gorsuch noted that while the law was intended to keep firearms away from dangerous people, the widespread use of marijuana complicates this narrative, as it is legal in many states and used for health purposes.
The decision does not prevent prosecution of individuals who are currently intoxicated or considered dangerous. Gorsuch clarified that the ruling does not address the legality of gun ownership for those addicted to illegal drugs. The case drew support from various groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Rifle Association, while gun safety organizations expressed concern about the implications of the ruling.
This decision is part of a broader trend of the Supreme Court expanding gun rights, following a landmark ruling in 2022. The court has also dealt with various firearm-related cases, including regulations on domestic violence and ghost guns, and is currently reviewing another case concerning gun carrying regulations in Hawaii.