Immigrant Denied U.S. Citizenship Due to Involvement with Legal Cannabis Business

Ephrata, Washington – In a case that underscores the clash between state and federal laws on cannabis, Maria Reimers, an immigrant entrepreneur, has been denied U.S. citizenship due to her involvement in the legal cannabis industry. Despite operating within the bounds of Washington state regulations, Reimers' dream of becoming a citizen has been jeopardized, prompting a legal battle against the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Reimers, who entered the country legally and obtained a green card, co-owns a small storefront in Ephrata with her American citizen husband. However, her attempt to secure U.S. citizenship in 2017 was met with a denial on the grounds of “lack of good moral character.” Federal immigration officials categorized her work as “illicit drug trafficking,” citing the federal prohibition on cannabis, despite its legality in Washington state.

While U.S. citizens participating in the cannabis industry have often faced minimal repercussions, immigrants like Reimers encounter severe consequences. These repercussions range from denial of citizenship and lifetime bans from lawful permanent residency to potential deportation, creating a disparity in treatment.

Facing an uphill legal battle, the Reimers have taken their case to court, arguing that Maria is not receiving the same equal protection from federal cannabis laws that citizens enjoy. Despite losing an appeal in 2022 and having the denial upheld by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in July, the couple filed an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court in October. As of now, the Supreme Court has not agreed to hear the case.

Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon has voiced support for addressing these disparities administratively and enacting legislation to reform federal drug policy. He emphasized that individuals complying with state laws should not face immigration penalties that treat them as criminals.

As the legal battle continues, Reimers reflects on her two decades in the country, contributing to its growth, yet facing the irony of being denied citizenship. The case highlights the complex intersection of state and federal cannabis laws and their profound impact on immigrants striving for citizenship.

This story was originally published by Politico.