Medical marijuana or your gun? In Missouri, you’ll have to make a choice

Federal law prohibits medical marijuana users from possessing or buying firearms and ammunition — even if state law allows the drug’s use.
 
That likely will come as a surprise to many Missourians who supported the legalization of medical marijuana in the state. And there are no exceptions, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which means Missouri residents won’t legally be able to have a license for medical marijuana and possess a firearm at the same time.

The law creates a serious dilemma for gun-carrying Missourians in need of medical marijuana. Do they choose protection or pain treatment?

Voters’ decision this month to amend the Missouri Constitution and legalize the drug for medical purposes did not change marijuana’s illegal status under federal law. And federal authorities are still obligated to enforce the nation’s laws.