Despite Marijuana Reform, Gun Owners Still Face Federal Prohibitions

On December 18^th, 2025 President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order (EO) reclassifying marijuana in some medical uses loosening various restrictions.  While we here at 2 If By Sea Tactical do not have a specific stance on this issue, we are as always concerned about rights for gun owners.  Unfortunately, this order does not reclassify marijuana at all, it only loosens restrictions on them.

There are several key points gun owners need to remember.

• Trump’s executive order does not change marijuana’s current legal classification.

• The order accelerates the review process for reclassification, which may still take several months.

• Reclassification would not alter existing federal firearms laws.

• Multiple court cases continue to challenge federal marijuana regulations.

• Expanded research into marijuana could eventually lead to new federally approved medications.

This EO does not reclassify marijuana itself.  What it is designed to do is to speed up the eventual reclassification of marijuana from its current Schedule I drug status.  The EO cites many different findings that contradict marijuana’s heavily controlled status.  However, it does need to be noted that when marijuana is reclassified to a Schedule III drug, the law of the land actually makes no distinction. The ATF 4473 Form reflects this.

This means that it will still be treated the same as it is currently treated when it comes to gun ownership.  The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) recently clarified this in their following statement, “Following this reclassification, unlawful users or addicts of marijuana will still be classified as prohibited persons pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(3), and may not receive or possess firearms or ammunition”.  This makes clear that relief for gun owners is still a long way off.

There may eventually be a future where marijuana usage does not restrict firearm rights.  Most likely, however, this will come from some of the pending court cases across the country for this to come to fruition.  Congress and the White House do not seem to have any rush or plan to open gun ownership to people using marijuana whether for recreational purposes, or medicinal.

As we begin this new year in 2026 we will continue to keep you up to date on all the new things taking effect as it pertains to firearms.  Many exciting cases have the potential to restore rights that have been surrendered.  We cannot wait to see what the new year brings.  Remember to stay vigilant and aggressive in defending our rights.

Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world.  As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube Channel @2ifbyseatactical and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.