Friday, January 24, 2014

David Codrea:Proposed Illinois gun ban for medical marijuana users points to larger issues

Patients obtaining medical marijuana in Illinois will give up their state-recognized right to own guns if a proposal by the Illinois Department of Public Health is approved, the Chicago Tribune reported Tuesday. “The plan outlines how adults who have any of 41 specified medical conditions, such as cancer, AIDS or complex regional pain syndrome, may apply to get a patient registry identification card to purchase medical pot,” the report explains.

That means rather than hold substance abusers accountable for harming others while under the influence, sick and vulnerable people in physically weakened conditions will be unable to defend themselves at all times.

The National Rifle Association had no position, deferring to federal law and the courts. But the issue goes beyond Illinois. Colorado, where recreational marijuana is now legal, creates the same condition where people must choose between pot and guns if they wish to remain “legal.”

“Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?” ATF’s Form 4473 Firearms Transaction Record asks, and if the answer is “Yes,” a sale may not proceed. Lying about that is a felony, and state laws notwithstanding, the federal government’s position is clear:

More here at Gun Rights Examiner

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