Comment on FR Doc # 2026-01141
Kevin FidlerSupportIndividual
Summary: The commenter supports the revision of the definition of an unlawful user of controlled substances, specifically advocating for a distinction between marijuana and "hard drugs." They argue that marijuana users should be treated similarly to alcohol users regarding firearm ownership, while those with histories of using hard drugs like cocaine or heroin should be restricted until they complete treatment and are deemed competent.
I think that considering more than half of the country has legal marijuana, and nearly all the country has medical marijuana, it puts people in a difficult position. One level of government considers marijuana illegal while lower levels consider it legal.
I had voted in favor of Ohio legalizing marijuana, and it now is. With the understanding that it be treated like alcohol, not tobacco. Well I drink alcohol almost daily, and it is illegal to be intoxicated and handling firearms. So I don't see why the same logic can't be applied to marijuana users.
Now the hard drugs I'm not going to be nearly as understanding about. I would say if someone has been arrested for using cocaine, meth, heroin, or lsd for example, and/or have a history of drug use. They should be banned from purchasing/carrying a firearm. At least until they're had treatment, and then maybe after some sort of review board finds the person competent to own firearms.