(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a case that could determine whether people who use marijuana can legally own firearms under federal law.
The case centers on a Texas man indicted after authorities reportedly found a handgun, marijuana and a small amount of cocaine in his home. Prosecutors charged him under a federal statute that makes it a felony for unlawful users of controlled substances to possess a firearm, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Lower courts dismissed the charge, but the Justice Department appealed, asking the high court to clarify whether the law is constitutional when applied to regular marijuana users -- particularly in states where cannabis is legal.
Gun-control advocates warn weakening the statute could complicate background checks and firearm restrictions. Opponents argue the law unfairly strips Second Amendment rights from people who use marijuana, even where it is permitted under state law.
Oral arguments are scheduled for today, March 2, with a decision expected later in the Court's term.