With cannabis becoming legalized, both medically and recreationally in numerous states, traveling with it is still a slippery slope. Recent headlines have posed various questions regarding the traveling laws. Since it is still federally illegal, flying with cannabis is also illegal. According to the Transportation Security Administration (better known as TSA), there is a slight exception, “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 the FDA.” Furthermore, TSA claims they do not actively search for cannabis in airports; rather they search for weapons and bombs. Yet, if someone does get caught trying to fly with cannabis, the police will handle the consequences. Whether someone has a medical marijuana card or uses cannabis recreationally, it remains illegal to fly with from state to state and internationally. Using cannabis in a country where it is legal, such as Canada, is allowed, but bringing it there is not. This means someone must purchase it in the country, rather than bringing it from their own.
Another form of cannabis transportation that remains illegal is driving across state lines; even if both states legalized cannabis, such as driving from Oregon to California, it is still illegal because it is considered federal jurisdiction. If someone is caught driving across state lines with cannabis, penalties can include up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Many states, such as Nebraska, have also created ‘drug checkpoints’ to limit cannabis into their state coming from a state where it is legal.
As for cruises, many cannabis users believe that recreational or medical use is allowed because they are not on US soil. This is false. Cannabis use on cruise ships is prohibited because all federally illegal controlled substances are not allowed on cruise ships. Even if the cruise ship calls at ports in a state where cannabis is legal, using it or possessing it on the ship is illegal.
In conclusion, traveling with cannabis is risky and could result in criminal charges. Therefore, one should double check their suitcase and belongings before heading out on their next vacation or work trip!
Sources:
https://keytocannabis.com/travel-tip-can-i-fly-with-cannabis/
https://www.roadaffair.com/traveling-with-cannabis/
https://wayofleaf.com/blog/can-you-cross-state-lines-with-marijuana
https://www.cruisemummy.co.uk/bringing-weed-on-a-cruise/
