In late 2025, Donald Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to accelerate the reclassification of marijuana under the federal Controlled Substances Act. While the move has generated widespread discussion, it has also created confusion—particularly about whether marijuana users may legally own or purchase firearms.
For Florida residents, estate planners, and gun owners, the answer is more nuanced than many headlines suggest.
Quick Answer
Does marijuana rescheduling change federal gun laws?
No. Even if marijuana is moved from Schedule I to Schedule III, federal firearm prohibitions tied to unlawful drug use remain in effect unless Congress changes the law or courts invalidate it.
What Did the Executive Order Actually Do?
The executive order instructs the U.S. Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration to complete rulemaking to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
What This Means:
- Marijuana would be recognized as having accepted medical use
- Research and pharmaceutical development could expand
- Marijuana would still be illegal under federal law
What This Does Not Mean:
- It does not legalize marijuana
- It does not override federal criminal statutes
- It does not automatically change gun ownership rules
Federal Firearms Law Still Applies
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), it remains unlawful for any person who is an “unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” to possess or purchase firearms or ammunition.
That statute applies regardless of state marijuana laws.
Important Compliance Points:
- Marijuana remains a “controlled substance” even if rescheduled
- Federal law supersedes Florida law for firearms regulation
- The background check form (ATF Form 4473) still asks about unlawful drug use
Florida Medical Marijuana and Gun Ownership
Florida permits medical marijuana use under state law. However:
- A Florida medical marijuana card does not override federal gun laws
- Federal authorities may still treat marijuana use as disqualifying
- Firearm dealers must follow federal—not state—standards
For clients who legally use medical marijuana in Florida, this creates a compliance gray area that should be carefully addressed in estate and asset-protection planning.
Estate Planning Implications for Firearms in Florida
Estate plans involving firearms—especially gun trusts, bequests, or inter-family transfers—must account for federal eligibility rules.
Estate Planning Risks to Watch:
- Leaving firearms to a beneficiary who may be a prohibited person
- Appointing a trustee who cannot lawfully possess firearms
- Failing to structure firearm trusts to allow lawful third-party possession
Best Practices:
- Include alternative beneficiaries
- Use qualified trustees
- Add compliance-based distribution conditions
- Coordinate with federal and Florida firearms law
Pending Court Challenges May Change the Landscape
Several federal courts are reviewing whether the firearm prohibition for marijuana users violates the Second Amendment. While outcomes remain uncertain, current law is still enforceable.
Until Congress or the courts act, rescheduling alone does not provide protection.
Bottom Line for Florida Residents
- Marijuana rescheduling is not legalization
- Federal gun prohibitions remain in force
- Florida law does not override federal firearms rules
- Estate plans involving firearms should be reviewed and updated
If you own firearms, use medical marijuana, or are planning the transfer of firearms through a trust or estate, professional legal guidance is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III make it legal federally?
No. Rescheduling changes how marijuana is classified under the federal Controlled Substances Act, but it does not fully legalize marijuana under federal law. Separate legislation would be needed for full federal legalization.
Does marijuana rescheduling change federal gun laws?
Not by itself. Federal firearm restrictions related to “unlawful users” of controlled substances remain in effect unless Congress changes the statute or courts invalidate it.
Can a Florida medical marijuana patient buy a gun?
Florida medical marijuana is legal under state law, but federal law governs licensed firearm sales. Federal rules and the ATF background-check process can still treat marijuana use as disqualifying under federal standards.
What does ATF Form 4473 ask about marijuana?
ATF Form 4473 asks whether the buyer is an unlawful user of marijuana or other controlled substances. Even if a person is compliant under Florida law, the federal form focuses on federal legality and controlled-substance status.
If marijuana becomes Schedule III, can users possess firearms legally?
Rescheduling alone doesn’t automatically remove federal firearm restrictions. Marijuana would still be a controlled substance, and the “unlawful user” analysis may still be applied under federal law.
How does this affect Florida estate planning and gun trusts?
If your estate plan involves firearms—such as a gun trust, firearm bequests, or family transfers—your plan should account for federal eligibility rules. A beneficiary or trustee who is a prohibited person could create legal and practical problems for lawful transfer and possession.
Should I update my estate plan if I own guns and also use medical marijuana?
It’s a good idea to review your plan. Proper drafting can help ensure firearms are handled through lawful custodianship and distribution provisions that reduce risk and confusion for your loved ones.
Does marijuana rescheduling change gun laws in Florida?
No. Even if marijuana is moved to Schedule III under federal law, federal firearm restrictions tied to unlawful drug use remain in effect. Marijuana would still be a controlled substance, and federal gun laws would continue to apply unless Congress or the courts make further changes.
Can Florida medical marijuana patients own guns?
Florida medical marijuana is legal under state law, but federal law governs firearm purchases and possession. State legalization does not override federal firearms rules.
Does marijuana rescheduling legalize marijuana federally?
No. Rescheduling recognizes medical use and allows expanded research, but it does not legalize marijuana at the federal level.
What does this mean for estate planning involving firearms?
Estate plans that include firearms should account for federal eligibility rules. Firearms cannot be transferred to prohibited persons, and improper planning may delay or prevent lawful inheritance.