The Transportation Security Authority (TSA) has updated its policy on bringing marijuana on planes, but doing so still isn’t federally approved for all travelers who partake.
The TSA’s information on traveling with medical marijuana was last updated in late April. The website states that travelers are allowed to jet-set with medically prescribed marijuana under special instructions. The source further notes that during screening, TSA officers’ priority is detecting “potential threats to aviation and passengers,” not finding illegal drugs.
“Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance or evidence of criminal activity is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer,” the authority discloses, further adding, “The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.”
The update followed the Trump administration’s reclassification of state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3. Per the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule 1 substances are those “with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Meanwhile, those in the Schedule 3 category have “moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence,” as well as a lower potential for drug abuse.
Has Anything Changed?
The TSA’s information on traveling with medical marijuana previously included a paragraph that was quietly removed as of the late April update. The now absent information said:
“Marijuana and certain cannabis infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, remain illegal under federal law except for products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis or that are approved by FDA. (See the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. 115-334.) TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law to local, state or federal authorities.”
What Else Do Travelers Need To Know About Bringing Marijuana On Planes?
It’s crucial to check the laws where you’ll be departing from and landing if you’re considering traveling with anything containing cannabis. Failing to do so and subsequently breaking the law can result in authorities apprehending you at the airport, jailing you, and leaving you suddenly subject to that destination’s legal system. Even if your cannabis consumption is under a doctor’s orders and you have your medical prescription, many governments will still consider it contraband. Being detained abroad over marijuana possession can happen to anyone, from everyday folk to celebrities. The latter makes international flying with marijuana particularly risky.
Regarding domestic travel, it is still illegal at the federal level to jet-set with recreational marijuana. Recreational use and possession laws vary by state.
