Court Rules to Protect Gun Rights of Marijuana Users

A U.S. appeals court has ruled that Texas resident Paola Connelly cannot be prosecuted for violating a federal ban on drug users owning firearms, citing the unconstitutionality of disarming individuals based on past drug habits. The ruling aligns with a recent Supreme Court decision expanding gun rights.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Wednesday that Paola Connelly, a Texas resident, cannot be prosecuted under a federal ban for drug users owning firearms. The court deemed the ban unconstitutional because it disarms individuals based on past drug use.

Judge Kurt Engelhardt, writing for the three-judge panel, cited a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that expanded gun rights under the Second Amendment. Engelhardt emphasized that while current drug users may be barred from owning weapons, there is no historical precedence to disarm sober citizens who are not under an impairing influence.

Connelly was indicted following an incident in December 2021 where police found her husband firing a shotgun at their neighbor's door. Although drug paraphernalia was found in their home, Connelly has retained her right to bear arms due to the court's decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)