The Trump administration is seeking to restrict gun ownership for individuals who use drugs, including marijuana. The government is appealing a court ruling that said a federal law making it a crime for drug users to own firearms cannot be used against someone based solely on their past drug use.
The law in question prohibits the possession of firearms by individuals who are “unlawful users of or addicted to any controlled substance.” However, a federal appeals court has ruled that this law cannot be applied to individuals who are no longer using drugs and are not currently under the influence.
The Justice Department is arguing that the appeals court’s decision is flawed and that the law should be interpreted to prohibit gun ownership for anyone who has ever used drugs, regardless of whether they are currently using them or not. The government is citing historical precedent, arguing that laws restricting gun ownership for drug users have been in place for centuries.
The case involves a dual citizen of the United States and Pakistan who was charged with owning a gun despite his regular marijuana use. The government alleges that the individual was also involved in the sale of illegal drugs and had used cocaine.
The individual’s lawyers argue that the government is trying to “inflame and disparage” their client’s character and that the only relevant fact is that he was not high when the gun was found in his home. They also argue that the law is unconstitutional and that it would disproportionately affect certain groups, such as minorities and the poor.
The Trump administration’s stance on this issue is notable, as it has generally been supportive of gun rights. However, the administration has also been critical of drug use and has taken steps to crack down on illegal drug trafficking.
The Supreme Court is expected to hear the case and make a decision in the coming months. The outcome could have significant implications for gun ownership and drug use in the United States.
