Missouri is known as the “Show-Me State” for a reason. We like things to be clear, simple, and honest. We also love our freedoms. For many folks here, that means two things are very important. First, the right to own a firearm for hunting or protection. Second, the right to use medical cannabis for health relief. But recently, there has been a lot of confusion. Since Missouri legalized marijuana, people are worried about their gun rights. You might be asking yourself a tough question. Can MMJ Card Holders Buy Guns in Missouri legally?
The answer is a little bit complicated. It is like a disagreement between two bosses.
The Federal Government: They say “No way.”
The Missouri Government: They say “Yes, your rights are protected.”
We are here to clear up the confusion. We want you to feel safe and informed.
(Disclaimer: We are medical experts, not lawyers. This article is for information only and is not legal advice.)
The Federal Hurdle: Why the ATF Says “No”
Key Takeaways:
Federal Law: Cannabis is still treated like a dangerous drug (Schedule I).
Form 4473: The paper you sign to buy a gun asks about drug use.
The Risk: Lying on this federal form is a serious crime.
The main problem does not come from Jefferson City. It comes from Washington D.C. The federal government has some old laws that make things tricky.
They follow the Gun Control Act of 1968. This law says that anyone who uses “controlled substances” cannot own a gun.
Even though Missouri voted to make weed legal, the Feds did not. They still list marijuana as a Schedule I drug. This puts it in the same list as heroin or LSD.
This becomes a real issue when you go to a gun store. If you buy from a licensed dealer, you have to fill out a form. This is called the ATF Form 4473.
Question 21(g) on this form asks if you use marijuana. It even has a bold warning. It says that marijuana is illegal federally, no matter what your state says.
If you have a medical card and check “No,” you are technically lying. That is a federal crime called perjury. If you check “Yes,” the dealer cannot sell you the gun.
The Missouri Shield: Article XIV Protections
Key Takeaways:
Amendment 3: Missouri voters added protections to the Constitution.
Article XIV: State police cannot deny permits just because of weed.
Constitutional Carry: You often don’t even need a permit in MO.
Now for the good news. Missouri has some of the strongest protections in the country.
When we passed Amendment 3, we changed our state Constitution. We added Article XIV. This part of the law is very special.
It explicitly says that state agencies cannot deny your rights just because you are a patient. This includes your right to own a gun or get a concealed carry permit (CCW).
Missouri is also a “Constitutional Carry” state. This means that for most people, you do not even need a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
But if you do want a permit, the sheriff cannot say “no” just because you have a medical card. The state law is designed to shield you.
It means that local police and state troopers are following Missouri rules. They are not out to take your guns away because of your medicine.
Buying vs. Owning: Where the Risk Lies
Key Takeaways:
Buying New: This is the “danger zone” due to federal checks.
Owning: Keeping what you have is generally safe under state law.
Private Sales: Rules are different than store purchases.
You need to know the difference between buying a new gun and keeping one you own. The answer to “Can MMJ Card Holders Buy Guns in Missouri” changes based on this.
Purchasing from a Dealer
This is the hardest part. As we mentioned, gun stores are federally licensed. They have to follow the ATF rules.
Because of the background check system (NICS), buying a new gun from a store is nearly impossible for patients. You cannot pass the check honestly if you are an active user.
This is where the federal law blocks you. It stops the transaction before it happens.
Owning and Private Sales
If you already own your guns, you are in a much better spot. Missouri law protects your right to keep them.
The state is not going to come to your house to confiscate them. As long as you are a law-abiding citizen, your possession is protected by the state Constitution.
However, you should always be smart. Never use your firearm while you are medicated. That is dangerous and illegal, just like drinking and handling a gun.
Also, be aware that private sales (person-to-person) do not always use federal forms. But you should always follow all local laws to be safe.
Why Get a Card? (It’s More Than Just Legal Weed)
Key Takeaways:
Lower Taxes: Pay only 4% tax instead of 6% or more.
Job Safety: Laws prevent firing you just for having a card.
Higher Limits: Possess more product than recreational users.
You might wonder if getting a card is worth the hassle. Why not just buy recreational weed?
Well, having a medical card in Missouri comes with huge benefits. It is not just about access; it is about protection.
First, you save money. Medical patients pay a 4% tax. Recreational users pay a 6% state tax plus local taxes. That adds up fast.
Second, the law protects your job. Employers in Missouri cannot fire you just for having a medical card or testing positive for THC, with some exceptions. Recreational users do not get this safety net.
Third, you can carry and keep more product. This is great if you need steady relief for pain or anxiety.
If you want to stay updated on these laws and tips, you can read more guides on our blog. We keep you posted on everything happening in the state.
How to Get Certified in Missouri (Simple Steps)
Key Takeaways:
Easy Online Visit: No need to leave your couch.
Fast Registration: We help you with the DHSS portal.
Expert Help: Real doctors who care.
If you are ready to choose health, the process is very simple. Missouri has made it easy for patients to get certified.
Here is how you do it:
Step 1: Book an Appointment
You can pick a time online. It is fast and secure.
Step 2: Consult the Doctor
You will hop on a video call with Kif Doctors. We will talk about your health and answer your questions. We make it stress-free.
Step 3: Register with the DHSS
Once we approve you, you upload the form to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website.
We know that every dollar counts. We want to make sure you get the best deal for your health.
Kif Doctors offers very low cost certification options for Missouri residents. You can check our site for the exact current rate, but we always keep it affordable. Plus, we offer Instant Approval on your recommendation letter. This means you can log in to the state portal and apply the same day. No waiting around for paperwork in the mail.
If you are curious about who we are, you can meet our team of experts on our website. We are here to support you.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of guns and cannabis can feel like walking a tightrope. It is a clash between federal rules and state rights.
So, Can MMJ Card Holders Buy Guns in Missouri? The answer is that buying new guns from a store is blocked by federal forms. But, the Missouri Constitution stands as a strong shield for your right to own guns and possess medicine.
You have the right to relieve your pain. You also have the right to feel safe. Missouri law supports both.
If you are ready to take control of your health, we are ready to help.
You can schedule your evaluation right now. Let’s get you feeling better today.
Sources
- Missouri Secretary of State (Article XIV): https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/Elections/Petitions/2022-059.pdf
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): https://www.atf.gov/firearms/docs/open-letter/all-ffls-sept2011-open-letter-marijuana-medicinal-purposes/download
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS): https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/
