United States, Petitioner v. Ali Danial Hemani

The Supreme Court heard arguments on whether a federal law bars gun possession by someone who “is an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” in a way that violates the respondent’s Second Amendment right. The dispute centers on how that law fits with the Court’s history-based test from New York State Rifle & Pistol Assn. v. Bruen.

The Court heard argument on March 2, 2026, on whether the federal gun ban for unlawful users of or addicts to controlled substances violates the respondent’s Second Amendment right under Bruen’s historical tradition test.

The case could shape when the federal government may limit gun possession based on drug use. For example, it could affect whether a person labeled an unlawful drug user can legally keep a firearm.

The justices are reviewing whether a federal gun ban for unlawful drug users or addicts violates the respondent’s Second Amendment right. The case focuses on the Constitution as applied to this respondent.

People accused of being unlawful drug users could be directly affected. Federal officials and lower courts also could get new guidance on enforcing gun restrictions.

The justices will conference and work toward an opinion. A decision is generally expected by late June or early July, unless the Court orders otherwise.