Flying With Marijuana: Will TSA Catch Marijuana Products in Your Luggage?

As travel continues to pick up pace, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reporting record-breaking numbers of travelers, the question of carrying marijuana during flights has become more pertinent. 

In West Virginia, where recreational marijuana remains illegal but medical marijuana has been legal since 2017 under Senate Bill 386, understanding the nuances of flying with marijuana is crucial. This article delves into the specifics of flying with marijuana products from and within West Virginia, offering guidance on what is permissible and why obtaining a medical marijuana card might be the right choice.

Understanding TSA Regulations on Marijuana

The TSA's primary focus is on ensuring the safety of travelers and transportation security. While TSA agents are not specifically looking for marijuana, they are required to report any illegal substances they find during the screening process. Here’s a closer look at what this means for travelers carrying marijuana products.

The TSA allows certain marijuana products through security checkpoints, provided they meet specific criteria:

• Products containing no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis

• FDA-approved marijuana products

Currently, the FDA has approved four marijuana-related products: Epidiolex (a CBD product), Marinol, Syndros (both forms of dronabinol), and Cesamet (nabilone). If your edibles or CBD products meet these requirements, they can legally be carried in your checked or carry-on baggage.

For marijuana products that exceed the 0.3% THC threshold, the situation becomes more complicated. TSA agents may not actively search for these substances, but if found, they are obligated to refer the matter to local law enforcement. In states like West Virginia, where recreational marijuana is illegal, this can lead to legal repercussions.

Flying From West Virginia

Since 2017, West Virginia has allowed the use of medical marijuana for qualifying patients. If you are a registered patient with a valid medical marijuana card, you have legal protection for possessing and using marijuana within the state. However, this protection does not extend to federal jurisdiction, which includes air travel.

Even if you hold a medical marijuana card, flying with marijuana remains a gray area. The TSA adheres to federal law, under which marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Therefore, carrying any form of marijuana, including medical marijuana, can result in complications at airport security.

When flying from West Virginia, remember that:

• West Virginia law does not protect you if you are found carrying marijuana at a federal security checkpoint.

• Airports and airlines operate under federal regulations, meaning TSA agents are obligated to enforce federal law.

• Some airports may have amnesty boxes where you can dispose of marijuana products before passing through security. However, not all airports provide this option.

Why You Need a Medical Marijuana Card

With the intricate regulations surrounding air travel and cannabis, possessing a medical marijuana card offers several notable benefits, particularly for domestic trips and legal safeguards. 

A medical marijuana card provides a legal shield within West Virginia, permitting you to possess and consume medical cannabis without risking state-level legal repercussions. This protection is crucial for patients relying on marijuana for therapeutic purposes. 

Licensed medical marijuana dispensaries in West Virginia offer high-quality, laboratory-tested products that adhere to stringent state regulations, ensuring access to safe and effective medicine tailored to individual medical needs. Registered patients often have the advantage of consulting medical professionals who can provide guidance on appropriate cannabis use for their specific conditions, an invaluable resource for effectively managing health issues.

Marijuana on the Go

When traveling with cannabis, it's crucial to ensure your products conform to TSA regulations. Stick to CBD items containing less than 0.3% THC and carry any necessary documentation like your medical marijuana card and prescription proof. 

Thoroughly research the marijuana laws of your destination state or country. Even when traveling to a place where cannabis is legal, remember that federal law governs air travel, and TSA rules apply uniformly across all states. If flying with marijuana feels too risky, consider alternatives such as legally shipping your products to your destination or purchasing them upon arrival. 

These options can help you avoid potential issues at airport security checkpoints. Exercising caution and following proper protocols is essential for a smooth and compliant travel experience with cannabis products.

Summary

Navigating the complexities of flying with marijuana requires a clear understanding of both federal and state laws. In West Virginia, where recreational marijuana remains prohibited, holding a medical marijuana card offers significant benefits but does not eliminate all travel-related risks. By adhering to TSA guidelines and staying informed about the legal landscape, you can minimize complications and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Obtaining a medical marijuana card not only provides legal protection within the state but also grants access to high-quality medical products and professional guidance, making it the right choice for those in need of marijuana for medical reasons. Always plan ahead and consider the safest options for carrying your marijuana products to ensure compliance with the law and avoid unnecessary hassles.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Medical marijuana is legal in the State of West Virginia, and you can apply for your very own medical card today! You need your medical card to visit any dispensary in the state.

If you think you may benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you will qualify for a card. It is now easier than ever to get your card with telemedicine, right from the comfort of your own home!

Being a West Virginia medical marijuana patient allows you the freedom to establish your own personalized treatment plan. We’re dedicated to helping patients every step of the way!

Feel free to give us a call at 877-303-8424 and we can answer your questions about getting a medical marijuana card in West Virginia.

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

West Virginia Marijuana Card’s mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, call us at 877-303-8424, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

Check out West Virginia Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information.