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Gun Ownership and Medical Marijuana Cards In Michigan

Evelyn Gentry | September 3, 2023

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Michigan became a medical marijuana state back in 2008 as the state launched its medical marijuana program allowing patients who are diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition to apply for a valid MMJ ID.

The state also allowed the concept of caregivers for registered medical marijuana patients and became the first midwestern state to do so.

Since then, the state quite improved its medical marijuana program making it more and more convenient for qualifying patients to apply for a medical marijuana card.

But does the state protect the legal rights of its registered medical marijuana users? Does the state offer legal protection to registered medical marijuana users to own a licensed gun? Fortunately, the answer is yes.

According to the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency, there are no restrictions as per the MMFLA (Michigan Marijuana Facilities Licensing Act) that prevent an individual with a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) from applying for a medical marijuana card within the state.

The law only prevents possession of a handgun under the influence of marijuana or any other drug.

Taking My Gun To a Dispensary in Michigan: Is It a Good Idea?

According to the state’s law, anyone who is 21 years or older can apply for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) considering that they have a clear criminal record free of any felony charges.

The CPL allows the gun owner to carry the weapon around as per the set regulations and restrictions. More importantly, here are some places where even a CPL can’t carry a firearm,

Schools or school property, a dormitory or classroom of a community college/university
A casino
Sports arena or stadium
A bar (public)
A hospital
Any property or facility owned or operated by a church/synagogue/mosque/temple, or any other place of worship/religious importance
An entertainment facility (with a seating capacity of 2,500)

As a dispensary is not included in the list of restricted places, you can carry a handgun in a dispensary considering that you have a valid CPL.

Consuming CBD Products and Owning a Gun in Michigan

In 2018, the state of Michigan legalized the use of CBD products that are hemp-driven and have lower than 0.3% THC for adults. According to the new legislation, adults without a medical marijuana card can use hemp-driven CBD products. So, owning a gun and consuming CBD products in Michigan won’t be an issue.

Our Experts Opinion

When it comes to ensuring the rights of its medical marijuana users, the state of Michigan has set a gold standard. The state mentioned that having a CPL doesn’t make you ineligible for a medical marijuana card and vice versa.

The only restriction put by the state is on possessing a firearm under the influence of a drug including marijuana.

Helpful Resources For Michigan Patients

Is Delta-9 Legal in Michigan?

Michigan Medical Marijuana Card For Minors: Guide 2023

Are Edibles Legal in Michigan? Cannabis Edibles Guide

Top 6 Benefits of Getting A Medical Card In Michigan

Evelyn Gentry

Important Medical Information & Disclaimers

Medical Disclaimer

The content on this page is for informational purposes only. It does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Medical marijuana recommendations are made only by licensed U.S. healthcare providers via secure telemedicine, in accordance with state laws.

Always consult a qualified physician before making any decisions about your health or starting new therapies.

Source: FDA – Cannabis Research & Drug Approval Process

Individual Results May Vary

Medical cannabis affects every patient differently. Outcomes depend on the product chosen, dosing, medical condition, and lifestyle factors like diet, stress, and medication adherence. Effectiveness may vary widely; regular follow-ups with your provider are essential.

Source: NIH – Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids

Possible Side Effects

The most common side effects of medical marijuana include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, red eyes, impaired concentration, and increased appetite. Some may experience anxiety, rapid heartbeat, memory issues, or mild hallucinations when using high-THC products. Rare but serious effects include depression, psychosis, heart rhythm changes, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (frequent vomiting).

Source: Mayo Clinic – Marijuana: Safety and Side Effects

Legal & Regulatory Notice

Medical marijuana is regulated by state law. Marijuana remains a Schedule I substance under U.S. federal law and is not prescribed in the traditional sense; it is recommended or certified for use, not prescribed. Initial evaluations may require in-person visits in certain states; renewals are often available via telemedicine, depending on local regulations.

Sources: DEA – Controlled Substances Act & Telehealth.org – Cannabis Prescribing and Telehealth

Product Quality & Safety

Only purchase medical cannabis from dispensaries licensed and regulated in your state. Unregulated products may contain contaminants or inaccurate THC/CBD concentrations, presenting safety risks.

Source: FDA – What To Know About Cannabis Products

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience unexpected or severe side effects from medical cannabis, notify your provider immediately and report them to the FDA’s MedWatch program: MedWatch Online or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your report helps improve safety for all patients.

Source: FDA – MedWatch Safety & Adverse Event Reporting