Legislation to protect the second amendment rights of medical cannabis patients is moving forward in the Massachusetts Legislature, with a public hearing scheduled for October 31, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in Gardner Auditorium.

The hearing, which will give both the public and lawmakers an opportunity to speak on the bill, will be held before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Senate Bill 1685, titled An Act Preserving Second Amendment Rights for Medical Marijuana Patients, was introduced in February by Senator Ryan Fattman (R) and it’s cosponsored by Senator Bruce Tarr (R). The proposal would amend Section 131 of Chapter 140 of the Massachusetts General Laws, ensuring that medical marijuana patients are not denied the ability to obtain a license to carry or a firearm identification card solely because of their patient status.

The bill specifies that the state and its approved licensing bodies may not reject an otherwise qualified applicant for a gun license based on their participation in the medical marijuana program. Supporters argue the measure is necessary to protect the rights of patients who are legally registered under Massachusetts law.

The full text of SB 1685 can be found by clicking here (PDF).