James Irey, a 46-year-old veteran who lives in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania had to face a difficult decision: endure chronic pain or forfeit his constitutional rights.

His journey began while serving in the Army in Kosovo where he sustained serious injuries including broken bones, torn ligaments and neck damage. Despite his sacrifices, which earned him numerous honors and awards, Irey left the service with debilitating pain that led to a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Outdated Gun Control Act Vs. Medical Marijuana Patients

Despite recent DEA moves to reclassify cannabis and recognize its medical benefits, it remains illegal at the federal level.

Veteran Suicides

The suicide rate among veterans is thought to be more than double what federal officials report annually because of undercounting related to drug overdose deaths and service record errors, according to an analysis published in Military Times in November 2022.

Veterans, disproportionately affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often find relief in cannabis, which studies suggest can effectively alleviate symptoms. However, the dilemma persists: seek treatment and forfeit your firearms or risk violating the law. The consequences can be dire.

While the VA offers PTSD treatment options, the prohibition on recommending or aiding veterans in obtaining cannabis will likely persist until cannabis is rescheduled.

Meanwhile, veterans like Irey continue to grapple with impossible and painful choices.

Now read: The Cannabis Caregiver Economy: Why These Workers Deserve Market Access And How States Can Help

Photo: Courtesy of Mwewering and PeterPike by Pixabay