Medical Cannabis and Firearms Licensing
One of the most prolific misconceptions about obtaining a medical cannabis card in Illinois is that you cannot possess both a med card and a FOID (Firearm Owner’s Identification Card) or CCL (Concealed Carry License) at the same time.
It’s a myth that stops many people from even considering a medical cannabis card, but it’s just that: a myth.
Legal Interpretations and Procedures
“It comes down to an interpretation of the law,” says the medical liaison at nuEra’s Chicago location, Chloe Geneve, “It’s all about the order of how you go about things.”
It’s true—Illinois residents who wish to hold a FOID and/or CCL along with a medical cannabis card are well within their rights to do so, but there are some rules.
Applying for FOID/CCL and Medical Cannabis Card
First, you must get your FOID, CCL, or both before applying for a medical cannabis card.
This is crucial. If you apply for a FOID after already having a medical card, you will need to wait until that current card expires or you voluntarily relinquish it, or until one year after your last instance of cannabis consumption, whichever is longer.
This is because part of the process for obtaining a FOID requires you to attest to no federally illegal drug use. Despite several states legalizing it for recreational use—some for over ten years—cannabis is still considered an illegal drug under federal law.
You also have to keep in mind that, once possessing both your medical cannabis card and a FOID, you will not be able to purchase new guns from storefronts; only ammo, and with limitations.
Also, you will need to wait for your medical cannabis card to expire plus one year before you are eligible to reapply for a FOID.
Guidance from Illinois State Police
Here is what the Illinois State Police website has to say about the matter:
“If you possess a Medical Marijuana License, are a caregiver pursuant to the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act, and/or otherwise use cannabis consistent with Illinois law, your FOID card or CCL will not be revoked nor will your application(s) denied. Medical Marijuana Licenses are state-issued and cannot result in the denial of any right or privilege. However, under Federal law, you are subject to restrictions that prohibit you from acquiring or possessing firearms and firearms ammunition.”
Seeking Professional Advice
If you have any questions about obtaining your medical cannabis card concurrently with a FOID and/or CCL, you can reach out to your nearest nuEra to book a sesh with one of their medical advisors.
